Grizelda the Green Hates Halloween

PreS-Gr 1–This book will bring lighthearted cheer to young readers. On Halloween night, costumed children set out trick-or-treating. Unfortunately, “There’s an old witch in town/ Named Grizelda the Green./ She’s sour and grouchy/ And hates Halloween!” Grizelda bursts the jack-o’-lanterns and extinguishes street lights. Kids laugh and pull out their glow sticks. They are delighted instead of frightened when she turns the candy to life. They praise and thank Grizelda for her tricks. She’s startled but enjoys the gratitude and uses her magic for good. Grizelda and the kids have so much fun that she decides to love Halloween. The story is simple and effective. Some rhymes feel forced, but they tell the story in playful and appropriate language. Couplets sit nicely on a page, allowing listeners to anticipate what happens next. Illustrations are basic digital cartoon style; the palette is appealing and fitting for the season, with black and lime green details popping against a pink and purple background. Children with a range of skin tones and colorful costumes are set against a navy blue evening. Faces have the large eyes and cartoonish expressions of anime.