Your Guide to Fright, Horror, & Things That Go Bump in the Night
by
Illustrated by
Ages 8 - 12
Hardcover: 64pp | 8 1/2 x 9 1/2 | $21.95
ISBN: 978-1-897066-66-9 (US $21.95)
Paperback: 64pp | 8 1/2 x 9 1/2 | $12.95
ISBN: 978-1-897066-67-6 (US $9.95)
ABOUT THE BOOK
Who knew that fear could be so much fun? Author Jeff Szpirglas brings his trademark brand of wacky humor and childlike curiosity to the subject of fear. What do we fear? And why? What happens in our bodies and brains when we feel frightened?
Readers will be on the edge of their seats as a barrage of fascinating information comes flying their way. Meticulous research and a wide-ranging look at the subject introduce readers to fear facts from around the world and through time. Rounded out with easily digestible scientific facts and, of course, a heavy dose of silly, Szpirglas’ latest book is sure to garner the type of accolades his previous books have won.
Hilarious but always enlightening dialogues between recurring characters Bloodthirsty Vampire and Terrifying Monster appear throughout the book, engaging readers on everything from a fear of the number 13 (triskaidekaphobia) to zombies and papercuts. What’s Scarier? cartoon strips ponder the question about two parallel things, such as What’s Scarier: a mummy curse or the inside of your mommy’s purse?
Bonus features include a patch of 100% PURE DARK to help readers overcome their fear of the dark; a Fairy Tale Survival Guide; a horror film manual for the directors of tomorrow; and quizzes to test knowledge of phobia names (WARNING: not to be attempted by those suffering from epistemophobia—a fear of knowledge—or hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia—the fear of long words).
Szpirglas’ text is perfectly complemented in design. Pérez’s sophisticated cartoon-style art picks up on the mood of the subject and the author’s wit. Brace yourself. Hold someone’s hand for comfort if you need to. When you’re ready, pick up the book, take your finger, and open up to the first page…IF YOU DARE! But don’t say you haven’t been warned.…
REVIEWS:
Publishers Weekly
’’...with fun trivia...and comic-book style artwork that oscillates between funny and scary, [Fear This Book] provides plenty to pore over.’’
San Francisco Chronicle
’’[Szpirglas] is in tune with what fascinates kids and knows how to write in language that will grab them and keep their interest. Perez’s vibrant, cartoonish illustrations are perfect as well, with enough vampires, ghosts, and Frankenstein images to make this a Halloween hit.’’
Canadian Bookseller
"…fright-hungry kids will devour the mountain of terrifying horrors waiting to be discovered inside this book. Fans of Szpirglas’ Gross Universe and They Did What?! will welcome this addition to this fun and fact-packed series."
The Chronical Herald (Halifax)
"A book filled with funny drawings and creepy facts -- what more could a thrill-seeking kid want?"
Sarah’s Stars
"Szpirglas and Pérez did an excellent job! From the eye-catching cover to the easy-to-read format, Fear This Book will encourage readers of all ages to learn something new. With hundreds of interesting facts, this has to be my favourite non-fiction book ever. I definitely suggest this book to anyone and everyone. Jordan gives Fear This Book 5 spine-tingling stars!"
The Telegram (St. John's)
"There’s lots to learn and lots to laugh about in this rousing read…"
Today's Parent (Toronto)
"From ghosts to superstitions to mythological monsters, Szpirglas covers a wide range of scary topics but offers up a host of fascinating facts and fun info."
School Library Journal
“Szpirglas is a veritable expert at goose bumps.”
~ School Library Journal
Star Phoenix (Saskatoon)
"Witty and succinct…"
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