Though initially perceived as scary, these memorable monsters in children’s books have surely impacted every child who’s heard or read about them.
Monsters have taken center stage in countless beloved children’s books. As scary as they seem, they’ve been written as lovable and often silly, with their antics entertaining every child reader. Knowing how monsters were portrayed during childhood, it’s hard to imagine them as friendly and fun. However, there are fantasy storybooks that reverse the classic “monsters under the bed” trope. These works make for a fun time for kids to read.
Through these monsters, children understand that the world is bigger than it seems, just like in the fantasy children’s book by Fleagane. They learn that even creatures that are usually considered scary or different can have feelings. It allows them to extend the same compassion to others, contributing to their development and growth.
Without further ado, here are the five memorable monsters which are highly popular among children:
The Gruffalo (The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson)
The Gruffalo, a fearsome but endearing creature, has become iconic in children’s literature. This clever monster challenges traditional notions of appearance and strength. Through the story, children learn about wit, empathy, and the power of imagination. The Gruffalo encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and navigate their fears.
Despite being a small creature, the mouse displays courage and self-confidence when facing the Gruffalo. This inspires young readers to believe in themselves and their abilities, encouraging them to face their fears and challenges.
Sully (Monsters, Inc. by Disney/Pixar)
Sully, the lovable blue monster from Monsters, Inc., has been an icon among generations of children. This character shows that monsters can be kind-hearted and have fears and vulnerabilities of their own. Sully’s friendship with Boo teaches children about love and compassion.
Moreover, in Monsters, Inc., monsters initially fear human children. Sully’s relationship with Boo challenges this prejudice and encourages children to question stereotypes and preconceived notions. The film promotes looking beyond appearances and understanding that differences should be celebrated rather than feared.
The Wild Things (Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak)
The Wild Things, with their untamed appearances and unpredictable behavior, symbolize a young child’s complex emotions and imagination. Through Max’s journey, children explore themes of anger, exploration, and the need for a sense of belonging. Furthermore, The Wild Things encourages young readers to embrace their emotions and express themselves creatively.
Max venturing to the lands of the Wild Things teaches kids about having a sense of responsibility and knowing one’s limits. While an unstoppable imagination is essential, the natural world still needs boundaries to be respected.
The BFG (The BFG by Roald Dahl)
The Big Friendly Giant, or BFG, showcases a different side of monsters. It has enchanted children worldwide with his kind nature, unique language, and dream-catching abilities. This gentle giant teaches the power of friendship, courage, and the importance of standing up against injustice. The BFG empowers young readers to be champions of goodness and compassion.
Roald Dahl’s unique language and wordplay in “The BFG” introduce children to the joy of language. The BFG’s distinctive way of speaking is filled with whimsical and playful words. It encourages children to explore language, expand their vocabulary, and appreciate the beauty of reading.
The Lorax (The Lorax by Dr. Seuss)
Although not a usual monster, the Lorax is a compelling character that speaks to environmental consciousness and the consequences of greed. This creature highlights the importance of sustainability, conservation, and taking responsibility for the world we live in. The Lorax inspires young readers to become stewards of the environment and advocates for positive change.
Despite the sad themes, The Lorax instills a sense of hope. It reminds young readers that even small actions can make a difference and that individuals have the power to effect positive change. The story encourages children to believe in their ability to create a better future and to work collectively toward environmental preservation.
What Can Children Learn from These Memorable Monsters
Monsters like the Lorax raise awareness about important environmental issues. Through their stories, children learn about the value of nature and the impact of human actions on the environment. Furthermore, the kids learn the importance of taking responsibility for preserving and protecting our planet. These lessons instill a sense of environmental consciousness and encourage young readers to become advocates for our planet.
Many of these monsters embody themes of courage and overcoming fears. Young readers witness protagonists facing their fears and finding the strength to confront challenges but so do these monsters. This inspires children to tackle their fears and gives them the confidence to face difficult situations.
All parents want their kids to pick up good moral values in any media they stumble upon. Much more when it’s about these memorable monsters that flipped the script. While they have changed how children see them, these characters will soon become a fond memory for their adult selves.
