By Mats Strandberg (author) , Sofia Falkenhem (illustrator) Part of the Frank the Monster series
"This distinctive, quirky, satisfying story is perfect for newly independent readers."
Paperback In Stock £8.99 £8.09
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April 2026 Book of the Month
On his ninth birthday, Frank turns into a monster. It takes him a while to realise it and longer to come to terms with it as we discover in this distinctive, quirky and very satisfying story.
It all starts with a bite – accidental – from his neighbour’s dog. That night, Frank dreams he is a werewolf, albeit one who just wants to play and have his tummy tickled but, in the morning, it’s clear the dream was reality.
At first Frank is horrified, and so are people in the area; indeed, when he ends up on the local beach one evening, they try to kill him. Saved by a couple of young ghosts and taken to the local library – where else? – Frank is introduced to a community of friendly monsters and, for the first time, this quiet, reserved young boy realises he’s found his pack. Maybe one day, he’ll be able to bring the two sides of his family, human and monster, together?
Told in clear, very enjoyable prose, this story prickles with ideas and notions. With illustrations on every page, and short chapters too, it will be particularly rewarding for children ready to start reading independently. Watch out for more books about Frank.
“This series comes to us highly recommended for its pace, warm heart and hint of Nordic noir.” Rachel Lawson, Publisher
Read the full description
A monster with a heart of gold proves it’s okay to be different.
A boy-turned-werewolf discovers his identity and finds his pack of misfit monster friends in this fast-paced, Nordic noir, illustrated series. The chapter books offer horror with heart to entice young readers and build a bridge to independent reading.
When Frank transforms into a furry, four-legged shapeshifter, the town is gripped by fear of a "wild beast." But Frank is still the same boy inside—one who just really wants a tummy scratch.
His journey leads him to a secret world hidden beneath the local library, where a community of misunderstood outcasts reveals that "monster" is just another word for "different."
'An excellent bridge between transitional chapter books and novels, the chapters are short and Falkenhem's striking black, white, and blue illustrations will engage reluctant readers. . . . With themes of bullying, growing up, and belonging, this story will resonate with kids who need reassurance that it's okay to be different.' - starred, School Library Journal
'A fresh take on a classic monster mythos in this timeless-feeling series starter.' - Publishers Weekly
'Strandberg's well-crafted small-town setting and suspenseful pacing draw readers in, while his quietly matter-of-fact prose, speckled with satisfying detail, expresses Frank's frustration, alienation, and even rage—feelings his young audience will recognize. . . . An invigorating take on a well-worn paranormal trope.' - Kirkus Reviews
'Frank the Monster is the first in a series and a powerful story about friendships, difference, the power of judgement and what the world would be like if friendly monsters were part of society.' - Books+Publishing
Mats Strandberg is one of Sweden's most acclaimed suspense and horror writers for children and adults, published internationally. His Frank the Monster series is an award-winning bestseller and book club choice, read by children around the world in more than fifteen languages.
photo credit: Henric Lindsten
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“This series comes to us highly recommended for its pace, warm heart and hint of Nordic noir.” Rachel Lawson, Publisher A monster with a heart of gold proves it’s okay to be different. A boy-turned-werewolf discovers his identity and finds his pack of misfit monster friends in this fast-paced, Nordic noir, illustrated series. The chapter books offer horror with heart to entice young readers and build a bridge to independent reading.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed Frank the Monster and determined it is suitable for children aged 7-10 years old
Frank the Monster features in the following genres: Featured Books for 7+ readers, Featured Books for 9+ readers, Books of the Month, Recommendations, Star Books, Fantasy / Magical, Horror & Ghost Stories, PSHE: Self-Awareness, Self-Esteem and Wellbeing, Personal Social Health Economic (PSHE), Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Children’s, Teenage and Educational
Paperback. £8.09, down from the £8.99 cover price. In Stock.
Frank the Monster was written by Mats Strandberg and published by Gecko Press
Frank the Monster has 107 pages
Yes it is part of Frank the Monster series
£8.09, reduced from £8.99. In Stock.
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