Review: The Monster and the Puppet Show - Kate Miccuci

Review: The Monster and Puppet Show - Kate Micucci - February 2026

When I worked in the library as a Children's and Teens Librarian, I was always on the lookout for funny interactive books that I could share with my class visits. There's nothing quite like watching kids light up when they get to participate in the story, and those are the books that stick with them long after storytime ends. If I was still in the library, The Monster and Puppet Show would absolutely be one of the books on my School Visits list.

Kate Micucci – yes, Lucy from The Big Bang Theory! – has created something really special here. This book immediately reminded me of the classic The Monster at the End of the Book, which featured Grover from Sesame Street. When my brother was little, that was one of his favourite books that I would read to him, and he'd giggle every single time we turned a page despite Grover's protests.

The Monster and Puppet Show captures that same magic of breaking the fourth wall and inviting young readers to become part of the adventure. The interactive elements make it perfect for read-alouds, whether you're sharing it with a classroom full of eager faces or snuggled up at home with your own kids. There's something wonderful about books that transform reading from a passive activity into an engaging experience where children feel like they're helping to tell the story.

Kate Micucci's playful storytelling shines throughout, and you can feel her performer's sensibility on every page. She understands what makes kids laugh and how to keep them engaged, which shouldn't surprise anyone familiar with her quirky, endearing comedy style. The book strikes that perfect balance between silly and sweet that makes it enjoyable for both kids and the adults reading to them – because let's be honest, nobody wants to read a boring book to children, and we certainly don't want to torture ourselves in the process!

For parents, teachers, and librarians looking for books that will actually get kids excited about reading, this is a winner. It's the kind of book that children will want to hear again and again, and one that works beautifully for engaging reluctant readers or energizing a whole classroom.

The Monster and Puppet Show is a fantastic addition to any picture book collection and proof that interactive storytelling never gets old.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LvRJ7o