Grumpfort - Jamie Hammond

 

The village of Bogfoss has long had a problem with monsters that terrorise the residents which is why there is always a warden to protect them.  Mo (Monday the sixteenth) had never wanted to be a warden so when he is appointed to the role he is terrified, more so when he is beaten up by a goblin on his first day.  Determined to prove the residents that he can do this, he heads into the woods to catch a monster; however, things don't quite go according to plan.  Not only does Mo need to cope with the monsters, but he also has to deal with the Grumpsnatcher.  

Grumpfort is a rather wonderful book with a host of quirky characters that readers will delight in getting to know (I loved Mo's Monsterology book).  Mo know he needs to follow his destiny but he really doesn't want to!  He's scared and would much rather do his own thing but heading into the forbidden wood may just lead him towards his destiny.  Full of twists and surprises, this is a funny story accompanied by Jamie's wonderful illustrations that are a joy to behold in their own right.

Grumpfort is a monster story with strong messages about friendship, acceptance and being true to yourself.  Publishing 13th March, this is the first of a brilliant new series; Jamie has created a place that readers will love exploring and, with an ending that will make you gasp, it will leave you wanting more.