Official Review: Sneaky The Hairy Mountain Monster

Christina Rose · Post by **Christina Rose** » 05 Dec 2017, 10:49

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Sneaky The Hairy Mountain Monster" by Norma Fleagane.]

3 out of 4 stars

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The grandparents of five year old Blake James live in a town that is surrounded by mountains and thick woods. Within those spooky woods, lives a monster that the townsfolk have named Sneaky. Very few men have actually seen this monster. Those that have, describe Sneaky as green and hairy with three eyes. When the monster growls, fire shoots out of his eyes and mouth. It is Christmas time in this mountainous town, and the people have been complaining of their Christmas decorations going missing. All signs point to Sneaky as the culprit, and Grandpa has decided to hunt him down. Young Blake wants to go along with his grandfather. Against the wishes of his grandmother, Blake is allowed to go as long as he minds what Grandpa says. What will they find when they locate the monster’s home, and what will they do with Sneaky?

Sneaky: The Hairy Mountain Monster is a children’s book written by Norma Fleagane and published by Christian Faith Publishing, Inc. Told from the 3rd person perspective, this book is about a town that is being tormented by a monster, and what the townsfolk finally decide to do about it. Blake and his grandfather set out to capture Sneaky, but instead learn a valuable life lesson.

This is a quick 31 page read that is just right for parents and other caregivers to read with their children. The problem set out in the story is clear, as is the journey towards a solution. The moral of the story is expressed well, and gives opportunity to discuss prejudice and the misjudging of others without coming on too strong or overbearing. I came across no spelling or grammatical errors in my reading.

The book is illustrated by Jasmine Mills, and the scenes are depicted very well and add nicely to the story. The drawings are realistic, with appropriate facial expressions to show the emotions and feelings of the characters. The woods are appropriately spooky and dark in appearance. The only issue I really had was that the dark forest is used as a sort of backdrop for the text. This might make it a little difficult for a younger reader, since the dark background makes it a little harder to read the words. There is a sufficient amount of pictures to keep the attention of young children, but the story itself is long enough for me to suggest it be read aloud by older children or adults.

The themes I notice in the story are bravery, pride, and courage; while the moral touches on tolerance, understanding, and acceptance. These are timeless lessons, and even adults will benefit from a reminder to have an open mind.

If I could give this book 3.5 stars, I would. But, since I cannot, I give this book a strong 3 out of 4 stars, due to the difficulty in reading the text against the dark background. The spooky woods coincide with the story so well, but unfortunately don’t provide the best of backgrounds for the words. I think this story can be enjoyed by both children and adults, and may even foster a nice family discussion afterwards.

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Sneaky The Hairy Mountain Monster
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Post by **kandscreeley** » 18 Oct 2018, 07:44

I'm intrigued! Who is sneaky and why is he stealing the Christmas decorations? It's too bad about the text being difficult to read, but all in all, it sounds like a really fun story! Definitely worth picking up. Thanks.

Post by **Alice Heritage** » 18 Oct 2018, 09:23

This sounds like a bit of a Grinch with a difference! It must be an enjoyable tale with morals about bravery and prejudice. Shame about the dark background because I'm sure the spooky woods will really fire kids' imaginations. Great review!

MsTri · Post by **MsTri** » 18 Oct 2018, 09:57

Sneaky is the Grinch! *lmao!*

It just so happens that The Grinch Who Stole Christmas is my favorite Christmas tale, and this sounds a lot like it, so I'm sure I'll enjoy it. Thanks for the review!

Msmith0704 · Post by **Msmith0704** » 18 Oct 2018, 11:33

Thank you for the great review. I'm looking forward to reading this book and sharing it with my grandchildren.

Francis Ernest · Post by **Francis Ernest** » 18 Oct 2018, 12:18

well am impressed,but who is this monster? and why is he disturbing this people? and why must the little boy want to go with is grandpa to such a dangerous journey?what if something bigger than them comes out?. This book is default to understand but it is so fun to me. Great review very perfect.

Caylie_Cat · Post by **Caylie_Cat** » 18 Oct 2018, 18:21

Thanks for the great review! I love kid's books that are more than just a story. I learn things from every book I read, and I think children deserve to come away with something to think about.

JHuschle519 · Post by **JHuschle519** » 19 Oct 2018, 01:37

I'm always on the lookout for a good children's book to read to my daughters. I especially like ones that teach them a lesson, and it sounds like this one does just that. I'm curious to read it now and see what the real deal is with this monster. Thank you for the excellent review.

Espie · Post by **Espie** » 23 Jan 2019, 06:43

I could see where you're coming from when you've mentioned the design element. It runs in consonance with the book's title and the theme, and yet it may be a bit too scary for younger readers. It's good that this book is insightful and educational enough for them, though. Thank you for your honest review.

Post by **Shrabastee Chakraborty** » 24 Jan 2019, 02:27

Wow! A perfect tale for children. A valid point about the dark backdrop, though. Thanks for your valuable review.

Post by **Kajori Sheryl Paul** » 30 Jan 2019, 06:50

Well, illustrations can both add and take way from a story. Your point about the dark backdrop is justified.

Thank you for the great review.

Connie Otwani · Post by **Connie Otwani** » 09 Feb 2019, 11:05

Sounds intriguing. I already want to find out more about Sneaky! Great review!

María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda · 14 May 2019, 19:42

Young readers or adults, we could all use some reminding that tolerance, acceptance, and understanding are important. I do wonder if the book has a religious message because you mentioned it's published by Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
I hope they fix the background problem because it seems like a nice Christmas story. Thank you!