Grouch, Grump, and Gloom 'n’ Doom possess all the characteristics an ambitious monster could hope for: They live in a dark castle, they get mad about nothing, and their favorite words are all “No.” They regularly argue over who among them is the best monster until the day they settle the question by collaboratively creating the “biggest, baddest monster EVER!” The Frankenstein-esque creature is undeniably large, and he certainly look scary—but when he hugs the little monsters to his chest and thanks them for his life, they realize their efforts have backfired. In fact, their new monster has nothing but kind thoughts and positive actions in his repertoire (which includes buying warm jelly doughnuts for all to share). Playful language and illustrations that manage to be both monstrous and endearing work together in this engaging story about deceptive appearances and new beginnings. (Ages 3–7)