A Spooktacular Bedtime Treat: Mother Ghost Review
As a mom of two feisty little ones, bedtime can often feel like a circus act—one minute we’re brushing teeth, and the next, we’re having a full-blown dance party in our jammies. In the middle of this delightful chaos, I stumbled upon Mother Ghost: Nursery Rhymes for Little Monsters by Shirley Jump—a title that immediately piqued my interest during one of those “I need something new” moments. With Halloween right around the corner, I thought it would be the perfect read to blend a little spookiness with snuggles.
Book Overview
Mother Ghost takes beloved nursery rhymes and gives them a delightful twist with a cast of charming—and slightly spooky—characters. Instead of the familiar "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary," we’re introduced to "Mary, Mary, Tall and Scary," showcasing a world where our little monsters come alive through playful verses. The book is filled with clever rhymes and illustrations that make every turn of the page a treat, featuring playful ghosts, ghouls, and other friendly creatures that kids can’t help but fall in love with.
Engagement and Reactions
From the get-go, my kids were hooked! The familiar sing-song vibe of nursery rhymes combined with the whimsical illustrations woke their imaginations. My five-year-old, Charlotte, who’s been on a witch kick lately, loved the idea of turning dark and scary themes into something light-hearted and funny. “Can I be a friendly ghost too?” she chimed in after we read one particularly amusing rhyme. My three-year-old, Max, giggled uncontrollably at the "Wee Willie Werewolf"; I could feel his little body shake with laughter—what more could a mom ask for during bedtime?
These illustrations are also nothing short of spectacular! The colors are vibrant and engaging, drawing my children in as they searched for friendly little monsters hiding among the pages. Each page turn felt like opening a door to an entirely new playroom filled with imaginative play. The rhythms are so catchy that even I found myself using different voices for each character—a little theatrical flair never hurt bedtime storytelling!
One of our favorite lines had to be from "Mary, Mary, Tall and Scary," where she confidently declares: “Scaring the plants is my expert plan!” I could see Charlotte’s little mind whirring with questions—“Mom, can plants get scared?” It sparked a delightful conversation about fears and how sometimes, things that feel scary can actually be fun.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly recommend Mother Ghost for any family looking to blend the whimsical with the spooky. It’s perfect for children aged 3 to 7, especially those who enjoy a playful fright and big laughs. This book is not a one-time read for us; it has quickly become a beloved bedtime companion. Honestly, I find myself looking forward to reading it as much as my kiddos do!
Sharing these moments of giggles and meaningful interaction not only makes our bedtime routine special but also hammers home the joys (and silliness) of parenting. It’s the perfect prep for Halloween—and a gentle reminder that even things that look scary can turn into something warm and cozy with just a bit of love. If you’re a fellow parent searching for a book that balances laughter with a slight shiver, Mother Ghost might just be the enchanting choice for your next reading adventure together!
Discover enchanting tales with Mother Ghost: Nursery Rhymes for Little Monsters! >>
