{Synopsis} – Monsters, monsters, everywhere!
This series is part of Scholastic’s early chapter book line, Branches. Aimed at 5- to 7-year-olds, this line of books is for children who are just starting to read independently. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!
In this third book in the series, Alexander goes up against shadow smashers. These monsters jump from shadow to shadow, causing problems all over town! Meanwhile, a member of Alexander’s Super Secret Monster Patrol (SSMP) may turn out to BE a monster! Fun black-and-white illustrations bring the action to life throughout.
{My thoughts} – There is so much to be learned within the pages of this particular book. Alexander encounters three different monsters in this book, but only one of them does he and his friends Rip and Nikki have to protect their city from.
The Shadow Smashers are an interesting take on monsters and a child’s imagination. I can see a child playing a game that revolves around these particular kind of monsters. I am sure that most parents have played shadow puppet games as children and they mention them within the pages of this book.
The entire city is preparing for Gopher Day which appears to be very similar to the well-known Groundhog Day. The Shadow Smashers are going to try and ruin that day, and may actually succeed. However, it is up to the trio to figure out a way to put a stop to the Shadow Smashers plan.
There is also another interesting monster mentioned in this book, that I am sure children will enjoy reading about. If you’d like to find out what monster that is, you’ll need to read the book.
Final Conclusion: 5 Star Rating.
