Book Review For "Trockle"

Book Review for "Trockle"
By: Holly Jahangiri
Illustrated by: Jordan Vinyard
ISBN: 978-0-9797513-2-5
4RV Publishing, LLC
24 Pages
5 Stars

"Trockle" is an engaging children's story that answers the age-old question, "Who's that lurking under the bed?" Jahangiri paints as vivid a picture with her words as Vinyard paints with her colors. Children of all ages will enjoy "Trockle."

Stephen is an everyday little boy who has one last snack and a glass of milk before bed. He brushes his teeth and savors his parent's hugs, but not even his mom's can of monster repellent will convince him that the monster under his bed is gone. His dad tries to tell Stephen the monster is only 'socks and books,' but Stephen knows better. When his parents ask for the monster's name, Stephen has an answer - "Trockle." His parents give him a hug, reassure him he'll be okay, and leave.

Under the bed, shoes and pens start to rustle about. Trockle can't get to sleep. There was a monster over his bed! Trockle's mother tries to tell him there are no monsters over the bed, but Trockle knew better. The monster over the bed made the ceiling squeak and creak. He tried to describe the monster to his mother. Trockle's mother finally admitted to Trockle there wasn't a monster over the bed, but a little boy. In their sleep, both Trockle and Stephen wish each other good night.

Trockle was inspired by the bedtime stories the author would share with her son. The book is richly illustrated by Jordan Vinyard. Her wonderful drawings bring life and heart to Stephen and Trockle. Each character is unique, each page captures the reader's imagination.

The story is well paced and keenly plotted. The opening is one that young readers can identify with - the nerve racking nighttime ritual. Stephen's anxiety is one all children share with him. Haven't we thought there was a monster under the bed? What sparkles about "Trockle" is that now the monster under the bed has a face with real feelings, emotions, and anxieties, just like the rest of us. Jahangiri and Vinyard connect with readers not just on the surface, but in their hearts.

The descriptions in the book are right on the mark. Trockle, while sweet, looks like a monster. He's got one big eye and pimples all over. He loves to eat chocolate from Chaco-Taco wrappers.

Young readers will enjoy reading Trockle on their own. It's the type of book children can share with a giggle and a smile with their friends. For an extra touch, the back cover of the book mirrors the front. Trockle is a sure-fire hit.

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