Somebody needs to do something about that monster

A neighborly monster unwittingly teaches a village about community in this simple story based on "The Little Dutch Boy." In the aftermath of a large flood, fuzzy blue Merv, a gentle giant of a creature with nubby horns, "sat outside the village snacking on plants. It's just what he did." From this post, Merv overhears nearby villagers, portrayed with various skin tones, complain about a monster, and--not realizing he's the issue--sets out in search to do something about it. He consults with a trio of purple witches, a pale-skinned bridge troll, and three sparkle-obsessed unicorns, but though each offers their unique services ("It's just what we do"), none suit his needs. And as he returns to the village, he and others come to understand the wide-ranging import of Merv's own contributions. Cenko's desaturated digital illustrations lean into greens and browns, making Merv the bright blue center of attention in this winning retelling. Ages 4--8. (Feb.)

A monster goes monster hunting. Merv, a big blue creature with horns, sits by a stream eating trees. (It's just what he does.) He overhears the nearby villagers' complaints that something needs to be done about that monster and, blissfully unaware that he is the beast in question, sets off to find help. A trio of purple-skinned witches tell him they can turn the monster into a frog ("it's just what we do"). A troll offers to eat the monster ("it's just what I do"), and several unicorns propose decorating the monster ("it's just what we do"), but none of their suggestions feel right. So Merv returns home. The dam's leaking; the village is almost completely flooded. Without thinking, Merv sits in his usual spot and plugs up the dam. Days later, the water has receded, and the wet witches, troll, and unicorns show up seeking refuge. Merv, who just wants to help friends--because that's what he does--convinces the villagers that monsters do make good neighbors. This sweet story offers sound messages about friendship, community, and appreciating what we have. Merv is kind and endearing, the supernatural figures richly comical. The digital illustrations are appealing, though readers may not pick up on the fact that Merv's been responsible all along for preventing the stream from flooding. The villagers are racially diverse. After reading about this cool monster, kids will know just what needs to be done about him--be his friend. (Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.