Official Review: A Halloween Dream by Michael Craig

[Tanaya]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Halloween Dream" by Michael Craig.]

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2 out of 4 stars

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A Halloween Dream is a children's book written and illustrated by Michael Lee Craig.

This book is about a boy who thinks that a witch lives down the street from him. He recounts all the telltale signs, from the way her house looks, to her supposed witch-like appearance, to the activities she must engage in as a witch. Since it is Halloween, he is determined to see for himself if the rumors are true.

The illustrations of the book were done by the author, and while fine for showing to people he personally knows, they lack the professional quality of a regular store-bought book. I still enjoyed the book, but this is something to keep in mind if you're considering buying it, especially as a gift. It is a self-made book that isn't trying to fool anybody to think otherwise.

My favorite aspect of the book was that the lines on each page rhymed in a way that had me, as a reader, anticipating the satisfaction of the rhyme in each sentence. I think this would be fun for kids as well.

My least favorite aspect of the book was that, in my opinion, it lacked originality. While the framing device is a boy who wants to find out if his neighbor down the street is really a witch, I almost forgot about that part of the narrative during the majority of the book, which mostly focuses on listing the typical characteristics of a witch. While young readers probably won't find any problem with that, especially with the fun rhymes, I wanted something more clever and out of the box to really make this book stand out. As it is, I think the plot is easily forgettable. The ending in particular, with its lack of resolve, left me very disappointed. This book had potential and I think its target audience of 3-7 year olds will surely enjoy it, but to me it didn't push the envelope in any memorable way.

I rate this book 2 out of 4 stars. As mentioned, I enjoyed the rhymes and the illustrations didn't bother me, but I wouldn't personally recommend it due to its lack of originality and disappointing ending. However, young children whose imaginations are still being formed would likely enjoy learning about witch lore during the Halloween season. If your family doesn't celebrate Halloween, then this book isn't for you.

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A Halloween Dream
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[Arun Bohra]

After reading the review I want to know the ending of the book. I am going to buy this book.

[Splendour0606]

Despite the errors, I think kids will enjoy reading it. Great review.

[Mrunalpatki]

Okay so you based on your review I decided to give this book a pass. Thanks for the review.

[Ediomis_Enwongo01]

Even though the book lacks originality, the rhymes embedded in the story can be a fun read for kids. Nice review.

[nageena_rasheed]

When i was a kid, i loved to hear about magic and witches. This book is a good fantasy read for thoughful children but for those kids who take stories rationally it is not good. Anyways personally i still like such stories that have pictorial and personalised touch.