Spike, the Mixed-up Monster

Written by: Susan Hood and Melissa Sweet

First line: Spike was a monster.

Why you should read this book: Spike is, in fact, an axolotl, an endangered type of salamander, who may look monstrous up close, but is hardly visible from far away, being smaller than many creatures in his environment. In this book, Spike tries to be terrifying but succeeds only in delighting his neighbors with his cuteness. Then along comes a real monster, the dangerous gila monster: can Spike make himself scary enough to save his friends?

Why you shouldn't read this book: You're a very grouchy ladybug.