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Frankenkitty
#1 New York Times best seller!
Frankenstein meets the Addams Family in this lively, laugh-out-loud Halloween picture book full of playful twists on all your favorite classic horror tropes!
Packed with hilariously dramatic narration and freakishly fun art, this gothic tale with a twist is perfect for kids ages 3-7 who love spooky season story time!
Meet Frankenkitty—a stitched-together kitten with a haunted castle for a home and a reputation that seems to terrify everyone…even his own inventor! Only Olive, the inventor’s brave young daughter, sees the sweet side of this misunderstood kitty.
But when terrible things start to happen at the castle—like mice invading the kitchen, frogs appearing in the bathtub, and Brussels sprouts showing up on the dinner menu—poor Frankenkitty gets the blame and is banished from the castle into the snow. Will Olive be able to rescue the poor kitten before it's too late?
This spooky-but-fun story is perfect for kids who love their monsters cute and their bedtime stories dramatic!
Frankenstein meets the Addams Family in this lively, laugh-out-loud Halloween picture book full of playful twists on all your favorite classic horror tropes!
Packed with hilariously dramatic narration and freakishly fun art, this gothic tale with a twist is perfect for kids ages 3-7 who love spooky season story time!
Meet Frankenkitty—a stitched-together kitten with a haunted castle for a home and a reputation that seems to terrify everyone…even his own inventor! Only Olive, the inventor’s brave young daughter, sees the sweet side of this misunderstood kitty.
But when terrible things start to happen at the castle—like mice invading the kitchen, frogs appearing in the bathtub, and Brussels sprouts showing up on the dinner menu—poor Frankenkitty gets the blame and is banished from the castle into the snow. Will Olive be able to rescue the poor kitten before it's too late?
This spooky-but-fun story is perfect for kids who love their monsters cute and their bedtime stories dramatic!
32 pages, Hardcover
Published July 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 6, 2026
The illustrations are very "spooky-cute" and this is a natural choice for the Halloween season--although, some of the imagery and content may be a little too spooky for some kids, but you may want to review it first.
I agree with the other reviewer who was unhappy with the section that had the Lurch-like butler throwing the kitten out in the snow because she is too "monstrous." While the kitten is rescued by a young girl who also feels different, the fact that this happened to Frankenkitty to begin with is sad and distressing. If this book inspires any conversations, I hope part of it will be about our responsibility to pets and kindness to them.
I agree with the other reviewer who was unhappy with the section that had the Lurch-like butler throwing the kitten out in the snow because she is too "monstrous." While the kitten is rescued by a young girl who also feels different, the fact that this happened to Frankenkitty to begin with is sad and distressing. If this book inspires any conversations, I hope part of it will be about our responsibility to pets and kindness to them.
October 19, 2026
Very cute spooky season, perfect for Halloween, children's picture book where the creation of Frankenkitty has all sorts of things like brussel sprouts and wet socks plaguing the haunted castle and scaring all, except Olive, the daughter of the castle.
This was an impulse purchase at Barnes & Noble while waiting to check out, and comes with a special small poster of Frankenkitty.
I found this fun reading of it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Cc5E....
This was an impulse purchase at Barnes & Noble while waiting to check out, and comes with a special small poster of Frankenkitty.
I found this fun reading of it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Cc5E....
Read
July 14, 2026once again... struck with the urge to read one of the picture books I'm cataloging. very cute
September 26, 2026
Expect some "spooky paws and eerie claws" with this one.
I had been meaning to leave this a little closer to Halloween, but yesterday I was unwell with a migraine and a high temperature, meaning that I didn't read anything at all. Today, whilst feeling a little better, I decided this book may just be the perfect pick-me-up.
As spooky season comes upon us, this would make a perfect read for little ones who like things a little more scary. Like Frankenstein's monster, Frankenkitty is rejected after he comes alive. But is this right? Is he really terrible, or maybe a little misunderstood?
The artwork for this tale is brilliant, possibly stronger than the tale itself. The bones (excuse the pun) are there, but I felt that the story of Frankenkitty could be developed a little more. Still, this is a cute tale with humour along the way, and an ending which I am sure will delight younger readers.
I had been meaning to leave this a little closer to Halloween, but yesterday I was unwell with a migraine and a high temperature, meaning that I didn't read anything at all. Today, whilst feeling a little better, I decided this book may just be the perfect pick-me-up.
As spooky season comes upon us, this would make a perfect read for little ones who like things a little more scary. Like Frankenstein's monster, Frankenkitty is rejected after he comes alive. But is this right? Is he really terrible, or maybe a little misunderstood?
The artwork for this tale is brilliant, possibly stronger than the tale itself. The bones (excuse the pun) are there, but I felt that the story of Frankenkitty could be developed a little more. Still, this is a cute tale with humour along the way, and an ending which I am sure will delight younger readers.
October 4, 2026
Adorable.
October 22, 2026
Another book that features a cat who is different in a very spooky way and is looking for a home. Except in this one the cat is mainly a background character in a story told by a talking skull. The story is based on an even older story where they accuse someone or something different for all the bad things happening. It's a kids book so we have to ignore why the scientists decide to create a kitten in the first place because it should have been obvious to him the kitten would be a monster.
Here's the issue for me because the cat is different they want to destroy it or get rid of it. I really don't like that they decided to throw the cat out in the snow knowing it will die. Yes, the kitten is saved but that is cruel and I don't know why the author thought it would be okay to be in a kids book.
Let's get to another huge flaw that's included in this book. In the illustrations the servants are drawn as classice movie monsters. The butler is Frankenstein's monster, the housekeeper is the bride, and there's a mummy and a butcher. It is the butler who picks up the kitten and throws it into the snow to die. We have to assume the scientist created the monster and his bride as servants so what's the difference between them. Well the butler looks like a normal human being and you only know it's Frankenstein's monster because there are bolts in his neck. The poor kitten though is made with different parts and covered in stitches. It left me wondering if the real reason the kitten is being judged is not for the the bad things happening but because of the way looked.
In the end the daughter who also different (she's wearing a hearing aid) saves the kitten and all live happily ever after. That is until the dad creates another frankencreature and decides its ugly, different, causes magical mischief, and should be killed
Here's the issue for me because the cat is different they want to destroy it or get rid of it. I really don't like that they decided to throw the cat out in the snow knowing it will die. Yes, the kitten is saved but that is cruel and I don't know why the author thought it would be okay to be in a kids book.
Let's get to another huge flaw that's included in this book. In the illustrations the servants are drawn as classice movie monsters. The butler is Frankenstein's monster, the housekeeper is the bride, and there's a mummy and a butcher. It is the butler who picks up the kitten and throws it into the snow to die. We have to assume the scientist created the monster and his bride as servants so what's the difference between them. Well the butler looks like a normal human being and you only know it's Frankenstein's monster because there are bolts in his neck. The poor kitten though is made with different parts and covered in stitches. It left me wondering if the real reason the kitten is being judged is not for the the bad things happening but because of the way looked.
In the end the daughter who also different (she's wearing a hearing aid) saves the kitten and all live happily ever after. That is until the dad creates another frankencreature and decides its ugly, different, causes magical mischief, and should be killed
November 6, 2026
This was cute but it was really just for kids. And that is a weird criticism for a children's picture book, it's just since I started picking up these types of books in recent years for my own enjoyment I have come across a few that truly transcended that narrow frame. I as an adult got a lot more out of those than just cute. "Frankenkitty" didn't do more for me, and worse it comes on the back off one of those outstanding ones.
I appreciate the plot twist to the ending, that makes this story definitely a lot of fun, I think kids would have a great time with this and what an adorable way to introduce them to one of the greatest stories of all time. For me personally though, it was a little goofy in its humor which also showed itself in how the people were illustrated. One of the elements why this felt so much like it only had its child audience in mind (and there is nothing wrong with that). So my enjoyment was dimmed a bit. I guess if my grown ass has to poke around the kid's section I deserve a reminder once in a while that this is not my place?! Frankenkitty herself is an absolutely charming villain though!
I appreciate the plot twist to the ending, that makes this story definitely a lot of fun, I think kids would have a great time with this and what an adorable way to introduce them to one of the greatest stories of all time. For me personally though, it was a little goofy in its humor which also showed itself in how the people were illustrated. One of the elements why this felt so much like it only had its child audience in mind (and there is nothing wrong with that). So my enjoyment was dimmed a bit. I guess if my grown ass has to poke around the kid's section I deserve a reminder once in a while that this is not my place?! Frankenkitty herself is an absolutely charming villain though!
July 24, 2026
Read this to my nephew Cyrus, and absolutely loved it. A core memory for myself made. He’s still very little, but was so engaged and cooing while I read it. Personally found the artistry really adorable!
August 25, 2026
Cute.
August 30, 2026
Absolutely counts toward my 2026 challenge 🥹
October 20, 2026
A funny, sweet story perfect for a younger crowd who love Halloween stories with less spook and more laughs.
November 5, 2026
This was...not good.
September 25, 2026
The inventor has created a FrankenKitty and now he is blaming every spooky happening and every slimy thing on the kitty - unfair!
Check out the gorgeous endpapers. And a neat little twist right at the end. Whether you want to blame Kitty or defend him, you will have lots of Halloween creepy things to gaze at on every page.
Check out the gorgeous endpapers. And a neat little twist right at the end. Whether you want to blame Kitty or defend him, you will have lots of Halloween creepy things to gaze at on every page.
October 17, 2026
This book is perfect because it was a gift from a young reader. A middle school student on a school trip to the city used his own money to purchase this Halloween read for me. He figured it was just my style and he was right. It was a most thoughtful gift. The story is cute, too.
July 28, 2026
Unnecessary defamation of Brussels sprouts
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Maudie Powell-Tuck has captured my ghoulish heart with this adorable children’s book. I am in love with Frankenkitty. It is humorous, a little creep, and a whole lot of adorable all rolled into one. This would be a perfect addition to anyone’s October reading list (or any day if you love Halloween).
Have you ever wondered what would happen if Frankenstein had reanimated a pet? Well, look no further than Frankenskitty. It touches on the original themes of the story of Frankenstein, but it does so in such a way that it isn’t in your face. You have to look a little deeper to see the connection, making it a great tool that could be used at a higher education level, while still being thoroughly entertaining and silly.
This is a story I can see little ones loving and giggling over. The attention to detail the illustrator put in every page had me staring at them longer than actually reading the story. On the surface level, it does seem like a silly, little Halloween read, and it might not be for everyone. However, it touches on themes of kindness and not judging a book (or cat) by its cover (fur). These are great lessons for students to learn, and this book allows that without making it the only focus of the story.
I think my favorite part of this story though is how it’s written. It’s usually hit or miss when a story is written as if the book is directly directly to the reader, breaking the fourth wall, and moving the story to the present. Frankenkitty was able to do this successfully, and the technique added to the uniqueness and fun of the story.
Frankenkitty has the potential in the classroom, if utilized correctly, to be a great learning tool. And, if nothing else, this story will get a few laughs.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher Spotlight for giving me an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Have you ever wondered what would happen if Frankenstein had reanimated a pet? Well, look no further than Frankenskitty. It touches on the original themes of the story of Frankenstein, but it does so in such a way that it isn’t in your face. You have to look a little deeper to see the connection, making it a great tool that could be used at a higher education level, while still being thoroughly entertaining and silly.
This is a story I can see little ones loving and giggling over. The attention to detail the illustrator put in every page had me staring at them longer than actually reading the story. On the surface level, it does seem like a silly, little Halloween read, and it might not be for everyone. However, it touches on themes of kindness and not judging a book (or cat) by its cover (fur). These are great lessons for students to learn, and this book allows that without making it the only focus of the story.
I think my favorite part of this story though is how it’s written. It’s usually hit or miss when a story is written as if the book is directly directly to the reader, breaking the fourth wall, and moving the story to the present. Frankenkitty was able to do this successfully, and the technique added to the uniqueness and fun of the story.
Frankenkitty has the potential in the classroom, if utilized correctly, to be a great learning tool. And, if nothing else, this story will get a few laughs.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher Spotlight for giving me an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2026
Inside a dark castle nestled deep in the woods lives an inventor who crafts remarkable creations. His latest experiment has led to the development of Frankenkitty, a monster of epic proportions. Though small, Frankenkitty is capable of wreaking all kinds of havoc, cursing the castle and making its inhabitants fear for their lives. But could this tiny kitty really be the cause of these dastardly deeds–or is he simply misunderstood?
This funny, offbeat Halloween tale blends elements from Frankenstein into a unique story that is enjoyable for young readers. Though the narrator speaks directly to the audience and warns them of the frightening aspects of the story to come, the book is entertaining and amusing rather than being scary. In fact, the over-the-top reactions from the other characters help readers view the tale from a different angle and realize that there is nothing to fear. Brief, animated text makes the book well suited to be read aloud to a preschool-aged audience, especially within the traditional Halloween season. Colorful, detailed illustrations amplify the storytelling, drawing the attention of young readers as the story is being read aloud to them. While some details may be unfamiliar for some children, other readers will delight in the surprises to be found within the imagery, and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect children with classic horror stories in a way that is age appropriate and relatable. This is a dynamic addition to read aloud collections for preschool-aged readers both at home and in the wider world.
This funny, offbeat Halloween tale blends elements from Frankenstein into a unique story that is enjoyable for young readers. Though the narrator speaks directly to the audience and warns them of the frightening aspects of the story to come, the book is entertaining and amusing rather than being scary. In fact, the over-the-top reactions from the other characters help readers view the tale from a different angle and realize that there is nothing to fear. Brief, animated text makes the book well suited to be read aloud to a preschool-aged audience, especially within the traditional Halloween season. Colorful, detailed illustrations amplify the storytelling, drawing the attention of young readers as the story is being read aloud to them. While some details may be unfamiliar for some children, other readers will delight in the surprises to be found within the imagery, and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect children with classic horror stories in a way that is age appropriate and relatable. This is a dynamic addition to read aloud collections for preschool-aged readers both at home and in the wider world.
September 13, 2026
This is the best picture book for Halloween (and after) for any early reader. It is really a tale (or tail) about kindness and the danger of making assumptions with no real evidence. The illustrations are just so inventive, colorful, cute and funny-- and just a bit silly, with only a touch scary (very few).. that is if you think a severed hand or a mummy are scary.
While the mad scientist (Father) creates the kitty with a strange device, it gently 'meows' hello, Nonetheless, the Father declares it is Frankenkitty, responsible for the spots on the bananas, sprouts for dinner, and slimy things in the bath, moths and more. He dumps the poor kitten outside the castle in the snow. Frankenkitty is doomed. Poor Olive! No one listens to her when she says the kitty is not a monster. She braves the wet socks and squirrels and cold snow to carry Frankenkitty inside. Frankenkitty is by the fire now after the kind rescue, after having a bowl of milk, happy on a loving cozy lap.
The people in the castle see that what they thought was a monster is really just a sweet kitty.. that did not do terrible things.. or did he? Kitty smiles.
Definitely a lesson for kids about making incorrect first impressions and jumping to conclusions. Importantly, about the value of compassion and kindness, and what to do if a adult does not listen to you! Do what you think is right and loving.
P.S. my edition has a bonus photo of the cute Frankenkitty in the back of book, suitable for framing. A nice reminder of the importance of kindness.
While the mad scientist (Father) creates the kitty with a strange device, it gently 'meows' hello, Nonetheless, the Father declares it is Frankenkitty, responsible for the spots on the bananas, sprouts for dinner, and slimy things in the bath, moths and more. He dumps the poor kitten outside the castle in the snow. Frankenkitty is doomed. Poor Olive! No one listens to her when she says the kitty is not a monster. She braves the wet socks and squirrels and cold snow to carry Frankenkitty inside. Frankenkitty is by the fire now after the kind rescue, after having a bowl of milk, happy on a loving cozy lap.
The people in the castle see that what they thought was a monster is really just a sweet kitty.. that did not do terrible things.. or did he? Kitty smiles.
Definitely a lesson for kids about making incorrect first impressions and jumping to conclusions. Importantly, about the value of compassion and kindness, and what to do if a adult does not listen to you! Do what you think is right and loving.
P.S. my edition has a bonus photo of the cute Frankenkitty in the back of book, suitable for framing. A nice reminder of the importance of kindness.
Read
October 8, 2026See my full review here: http://yabookscentral.com/frankenkitty/
FRANKENKITTY is an overall cute Halloween story. Frankenkitty is created by a scientist who is not quite sure what to do with him. Luckily, his daughter Olive knows and is delighted to give Frankenkitty a home. When things go awry and Frankenkitty is blamed, he is tossed out in the snow. Olive understands that he is just a kitten and brings him back home with lots of love.
What I loved: This is an overall fun Halloween story with horroresque style narration (though more comedy than frights here). The storyline is easy to follow and ultimately ends up being a story about love and understanding, shown through Olive. The colorful and imaginative illustrations complement the story well and really help to show what is happening along the way. They really shine throughout with thoughtful choices between full page images in some scenes and panel-type vignettes in others.
What left me wanting more: As a small thing, the story felt a little scattered in how it was told with a bit of cruelty to the kitten who was created. However, all is well that ends well, with Frankenkitty finding a place with Olive who cares for him.
Final verdict: FRANKENKITTY is an interesting new Halloween tale that will charm young readers.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
FRANKENKITTY is an overall cute Halloween story. Frankenkitty is created by a scientist who is not quite sure what to do with him. Luckily, his daughter Olive knows and is delighted to give Frankenkitty a home. When things go awry and Frankenkitty is blamed, he is tossed out in the snow. Olive understands that he is just a kitten and brings him back home with lots of love.
What I loved: This is an overall fun Halloween story with horroresque style narration (though more comedy than frights here). The storyline is easy to follow and ultimately ends up being a story about love and understanding, shown through Olive. The colorful and imaginative illustrations complement the story well and really help to show what is happening along the way. They really shine throughout with thoughtful choices between full page images in some scenes and panel-type vignettes in others.
What left me wanting more: As a small thing, the story felt a little scattered in how it was told with a bit of cruelty to the kitten who was created. However, all is well that ends well, with Frankenkitty finding a place with Olive who cares for him.
Final verdict: FRANKENKITTY is an interesting new Halloween tale that will charm young readers.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 17, 2026
Frankenkitty is a welcome addition to the Halloween book lineup. This story takes place in a creepy castle, where an inventor has created Frankenkitty, a terrible, scary creature. Only, Frankenkitty is absolutely adorable, with wide eyes, patchwork fur, and a miniscule size. The narrator of the story is a skeleton head found on each page, who addresses the reader throughout. By the end, the reader learns that Frankenkitty isn't as scary as the inventor thought…or is he?
The illustrations are appropriately spooky and fun. Each page is richly drawn with cartoonish flair. For example, brains in jars have expressive eyeballs, and bats flying around are brown and cute, looking more like friendly moths. Frankenkitty himself is as cute as can be! The end pages show shelves full of things the scary inventor would use, such as pet food, spirits, toads, and fingers. The colors used are reminiscent of a dark and gloomy castle: lots of red, brown, and black. The cover is eye-catching, with the title in a bright chloroform green. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
The illustrations are appropriately spooky and fun. Each page is richly drawn with cartoonish flair. For example, brains in jars have expressive eyeballs, and bats flying around are brown and cute, looking more like friendly moths. Frankenkitty himself is as cute as can be! The end pages show shelves full of things the scary inventor would use, such as pet food, spirits, toads, and fingers. The colors used are reminiscent of a dark and gloomy castle: lots of red, brown, and black. The cover is eye-catching, with the title in a bright chloroform green. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Readers of all ages are constantly asking for scary and more scary books, even the littles! Here’s a picture book filled all sorts of creepy, ghoulish items throughout a dark and damp haunted home inhabited by a Frankenstein like creator of…FRANKENKITTY!
Maudie Powell-Tuck’s text tells the story of a created cat who may be the one responsible for all the scary things happening in the castle and uses terrific descriptive language including examples of simile, alliteration and plenty of expressive adjectives but it is likely the incredibly detailed illustrations by Mimi Grey that will steal the show and bring readers back to this picture book time and time again, finding something new tucked into each page every time they browse. Would make a great read aloud but teachers/caregivers/librarians should be sure to leave the book out for kids to leaf through after!
Wonderful! Highly recommended for preschool through grade 3!
Thanks so much for the early look, NetGalley and Tiger Tales/Penguin Random House.
Maudie Powell-Tuck’s text tells the story of a created cat who may be the one responsible for all the scary things happening in the castle and uses terrific descriptive language including examples of simile, alliteration and plenty of expressive adjectives but it is likely the incredibly detailed illustrations by Mimi Grey that will steal the show and bring readers back to this picture book time and time again, finding something new tucked into each page every time they browse. Would make a great read aloud but teachers/caregivers/librarians should be sure to leave the book out for kids to leaf through after!
Wonderful! Highly recommended for preschool through grade 3!
Thanks so much for the early look, NetGalley and Tiger Tales/Penguin Random House.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Frankenkitty is a cute little story with great, detailed pictures for kids to find something new to notice on every page. By far this spooky picture book’s strength is the art. The story is a silly little idea about a kitty that is brought back to life and might be responsible for havoc around a castle; so he’s put out and found by a sweet girl that saves him. The ‘twist’ ending a little silly but typical of a children’s picture book. Nothing truly nefarious here of course; your typical ‘Halloween’ book for kiddos.
Fun, short, with cute illustrations. Not a bad choice for spooky season but it doesn’t really teach anything or reinforce much; except maybe saving or being nice to animals? And even that is a pretty vague overall for most 2-5 year olds to pick-up. I’d say over 5 and most kids will find this one too junior and a bit too silly. But the right toddler will likely love to point out something new in the incredible illustrations!
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
Fun, short, with cute illustrations. Not a bad choice for spooky season but it doesn’t really teach anything or reinforce much; except maybe saving or being nice to animals? And even that is a pretty vague overall for most 2-5 year olds to pick-up. I’d say over 5 and most kids will find this one too junior and a bit too silly. But the right toddler will likely love to point out something new in the incredible illustrations!
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
October 30, 2026
An inventor creates a creature he names FrankenKitty. But when horrible things start happening around the castle, the stitched-together kitten gets the blame. Told from the perspective of a skull who seems to be thoroughly overdramatic, readers get told the kitten is to blame for the appearance of various pests. The kitten gets thrown out resulting in empathy for the cat from the narrator (and hopefully the reader). Luckily Olive, the inventor's daughter, rescues the kitten from freezing. The book ends on an uncertain note however, as the narrator expresses new found doubt about FrankenKitty's innocence. Readers are left to decide for themselves. The illustrations present readers with a spooky seeming castle with various unwelcome animals taking up residence as well as rather unusual ingredients for experiments. FrankenKitty appears to be a combination fox and tiger which children will love pointing out. A fun book about an unusual pet that could also be used to encourage children to avoid snap judgments. Recommended.
July 30, 2026
This book is the CUTEST!
An inventor creates a monster Frankenkitty, and then strange things start happening around the castle, which is obviously the kitty's fault. Only Olive, the inventor's daughter seems to think Frankenkitty is just an innocent cat... or is he?
I love a good gothic kids book. The artwork by Mini Grey is absolutely perfect, it has a whimsical creepy factor to it that plays really well into the story. The text is short enough per page that it would make a great read aloud; and the spooky is very age appropriate. I imagine kids squealing with delight when we get to the brown bananas, or the Brussel sprouts-- TRUE TERROR! It also has a really heartwarming message about friendship at it's core, and not judging a book by it's cover.
A perfect read aloud for Halloween or anytime, with whimsy and humor, Frankenkitty by Maudie Powell-Tuck is a great addition to your spooky collection.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tiger Tales for an ARC of this book!
An inventor creates a monster Frankenkitty, and then strange things start happening around the castle, which is obviously the kitty's fault. Only Olive, the inventor's daughter seems to think Frankenkitty is just an innocent cat... or is he?
I love a good gothic kids book. The artwork by Mini Grey is absolutely perfect, it has a whimsical creepy factor to it that plays really well into the story. The text is short enough per page that it would make a great read aloud; and the spooky is very age appropriate. I imagine kids squealing with delight when we get to the brown bananas, or the Brussel sprouts-- TRUE TERROR! It also has a really heartwarming message about friendship at it's core, and not judging a book by it's cover.
A perfect read aloud for Halloween or anytime, with whimsy and humor, Frankenkitty by Maudie Powell-Tuck is a great addition to your spooky collection.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tiger Tales for an ARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As an adult who seeks out children's books that are quirky with just enough creep factor for children, let me tell you how fast I ran to request this ARC. And it did not disappoint. I can just imagine reading this in an eerie, dramatic voice to my class of spook loving 4& 5-year-olds. It is an appropriately done rendition of classic horror using not so spooky things most children (and adults) love...a cat! The illustrations were also noteworthy, with so many creepy things I know the kids will love pointing out!
Be sure and check this book out if you have a monster loving child approximately 3+ (or if you're a horror and cat fan adult like me).
Thank you so much, Tiger Tales and Publisher Spotlight, for the advanced e-book in exchange for my honest review. I look forward to seeing this one on shelves!
Be sure and check this book out if you have a monster loving child approximately 3+ (or if you're a horror and cat fan adult like me).
Thank you so much, Tiger Tales and Publisher Spotlight, for the advanced e-book in exchange for my honest review. I look forward to seeing this one on shelves!
October 15, 2026
A new release for this year was a highlight for a bookstores picture book of the month for the spooky season. My nephews enjoy all things related to Halloween, so this was a book I needed to investigate.
I was immediately smitten when opening to reveal dismembered body parts, a brain in a jar, and a severed head as the narrators for the tale. An inventor reanimates Frankenkitty as kooky and spooky occurances that take place in the castle, which it is blamed for causing its removal from the residence. Only the inventor's daughter, Olive, can save the day. The illustrations are cheerfully eerie, and either this is suitable for older children or those raised in a household of those who have a taste for the macabre.
I also purchased this book for my nephews and recommend others share it with children who would appreciate zombie animal stories.
I was immediately smitten when opening to reveal dismembered body parts, a brain in a jar, and a severed head as the narrators for the tale. An inventor reanimates Frankenkitty as kooky and spooky occurances that take place in the castle, which it is blamed for causing its removal from the residence. Only the inventor's daughter, Olive, can save the day. The illustrations are cheerfully eerie, and either this is suitable for older children or those raised in a household of those who have a taste for the macabre.
I also purchased this book for my nephews and recommend others share it with children who would appreciate zombie animal stories.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Frankenkitty” is a misunderstood and mismatched…well, Frankenkitty. Some fear him because he is an unnatural creature, but others see that underneath a scary appearance he is a sweet kitty. He is blamed for creepy happenings, but really, he’s just trying to be his kitten self.
Maudie Powell-Tuck tells an endearing story about being different and misunderstood and finding people who “get you.” The book is colorful and the illustrations are detailed enough to go on scavenger hunts to find all that is going on.
This story is great for kids who enjoy stories that are a little bit scary.
I received an advance review copy for free from Netgalley and Tiger Tales , and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Maudie Powell-Tuck tells an endearing story about being different and misunderstood and finding people who “get you.” The book is colorful and the illustrations are detailed enough to go on scavenger hunts to find all that is going on.
This story is great for kids who enjoy stories that are a little bit scary.
I received an advance review copy for free from Netgalley and Tiger Tales , and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Frankenkitty is a beautifully designed picture book with charming illustrations and an engaging layout that immediately draws the reader in. The story is very cute, with just the right balance of spooky and playful, making it an enjoyable read for young audiences.
I especially appreciated the clever twist at the end, which adds depth and gives the story extra staying power beyond a typical picture book read. It’s the kind of detail that will likely spark conversation with children after reading.
Overall, this is a delightful and thoughtfully crafted book that I would happily gift to the young people in my life.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tiger Tales publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I especially appreciated the clever twist at the end, which adds depth and gives the story extra staying power beyond a typical picture book read. It’s the kind of detail that will likely spark conversation with children after reading.
Overall, this is a delightful and thoughtfully crafted book that I would happily gift to the young people in my life.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tiger Tales publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Frankenkitty might just be the cutest little monster we have ever met.
My 3 year old and I both loved this book. As a horror lover, my son is always asking for stories like the ones mama reads, and this was absolutely perfect for that. I loved the adorable yet spooky vibes, that were just right for my 3 year old!
The artwork was absolutely adorable and though he is so cute, we are pretty sure it was Frankenkitty all along(he is a cat after all)
I really need to stop reviewing children’s books because I end up wanting to buy every single one.
Also… someone please make a Frankenkitty stuffed animal immediately.
10 stars
5 from me and 5 from the kiddo
My 3 year old and I both loved this book. As a horror lover, my son is always asking for stories like the ones mama reads, and this was absolutely perfect for that. I loved the adorable yet spooky vibes, that were just right for my 3 year old!
The artwork was absolutely adorable and though he is so cute, we are pretty sure it was Frankenkitty all along(he is a cat after all)
I really need to stop reviewing children’s books because I end up wanting to buy every single one.
Also… someone please make a Frankenkitty stuffed animal immediately.
10 stars
5 from me and 5 from the kiddo
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The way the author builds suspense in this gothic tale for the younger set is pitch perfect as is the very idea of a tiny kitten being considered a monster. A humorous takeoff on the idea of Frankenstein's monster, this picture book features a brave, kindhearted youngster named Olive who saves the kitten from its intended fate, and scenes of ghoulish horror, including moths, bananas past their prime, and body parts. All the terrible things happening in the family's castle are blamed on the innocent kitten. Ah, but there's a twist at the end. This delightful outing would make a great Halloween or stormy night read aloud.
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