The Monster Catchers: A Bailey Buckleby Story

by George Brewington

A father-son monster hunter duo must save the Bay Area from an evil villain in The Monster Catchers , a madcap middle-grade fantasy debut from George Brewington.

If there's something strange in the neighborhood, who you gonna call? Buckleby and Son!
Whether it's a goblin in the garden or a fairy in the attic, Bailey Buckleby and his dad can rid your home of whatever monster is troubling you—for the right price. But when Bailey discovers that his dad has been lying—their pet troll Henry is actually a kidnapped baby sea giant—he begins to question the family business. Enter Axel Pazuzu, criminal mastermind, who will stop at nothing to make a buck. With everyone and everything he loves in peril, it's up to Bailey to save his family and set things right in this funny, fantastical adventure.

Genres: Middle Grade, Childrens

281 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 5, 2019

About the author

George Brewington writes fantasy and science fiction for both children and grown-ups. His first novel for young readers - THE MONSTER CATCHERS - debuted in 2019. His second novel - THE GIRL WHO BUILT A SPIDER - was published in 2023 and is a Sunshine State Young Readers Award Nominee. He lives in the marshes of Folly Beach, South Carolina with his family, surrounded on all sides by snowy egrets, green herons, bottlenose dolphins, and boo hags. George frequently posts on his blog at www.georgebrewington.com.

Reviews

[Brittany Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many great things about this children's book!

The world-building was imaginative and the illustrations of the monsters were an awesome bonus! They were really neat. This element brought the story to life even more so, which was already extremely lively. Such vivid imagination! The action scenes were superb, packed with decision making and included many "heart of a lion" moments. Strong, courageous characters befriended interesting, funny monsters. Maybe not all monsters are so bad after all, but perhaps slightly misunderstood?

'The Monster Catchers' is fun to read out loud or let children read it on their own. The reading is engaging and action-packed, surely to get them excited in reading again. I know I'd like to gift my little brother this title, he is 12 years old.

I borrowed this book from my friend because the cover looked awesome! Everything from the colors to the font, plus anything monsters?—Count me in, as long as it's not too scary. Whether it is for children or not I wanted to see how monsters are being portrayed to kids today, and this one does a great job of balancing good v.s. evil. I LOVED the ending!

I'd recommend, even if spooky season is over, I can see this being a children's favorite. I mean even I would like to see the adventures of Bailey Buckleby and his newly acquired crew in the next book, I bet children will too.

I'd say ages +8 because, during monster hunting, there is minor violence resulting in a little bloodshed.

[Christina (Confessions of a Book Addict) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bailey Buckleby lives an interesting life in San Francisco, California with his father. They run a monster catching business and a souvenir store that features some of San Francisco's most strange things. Bailey, and a few others, know the secret that is in the back room of their store: monsters! Monsters are everywhere; in fact, one of Bailey's pets is a Swiss Troll, so his dad says, that he often dresses up like a human and takes for a walk to the beach. Also, Bailey accompanies his monster hunting father on trips to rid monsters from people's homes. He isn't able to share this secret with anyone until he meets Savannah, a fellow seventh grade student, who knows about the presence of monsters. As the story progresses, Bailey meets Axel, part human/part dog, and he wants to take down Buckleby and Sons and also keep Henry, the supposed Swiss Troll, for himself. Axel starts making Bailey question things his father has told him in the past, especially about Henry and the untimely death of his mother. His interaction with Axel really highlights the differences between Bailey and his father. Can the father and son duo defeat Axel and his clan? Is Henry truly a Swiss troll or are there are more secrets Bailey's father is keeping from him and what exactly happened to Bailey's mother? George Brewington's debut, The Monster Catchers, is an adventurous tale for children who love imaginative stories filled with monsters, action, and heroic children.
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...

[abdulia ortiz-perez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from Smith Publishing for honest Review.

Me and my daughter had fun reading this together. It a perfect read for kids or anybody really.
We are giving this 5 BIG STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is not my type of reading but was happy to received this cuz it was so good. Know I have to read more books of his and read more action packed books.


Wow what a surprising read. Couldn’t put it down and enjoyed every minute of it. Has a nice flow right from the end of the other books to this book. Just when I thought it was ending you turned and keep the reader at the edge of their chair.
Keep up the great work. Can’t wait for the next adventure.
I highly recommend this book.


This was my first time reading anything from this author. This was a awesome read. It was fast read! Just how I like it. I couldn't put it down at all and I was so hooked in the story. One setting read! It was a good fantastic read!

The writing was good! I love the setting and theme in the storyline. I love the characters!
I highly recommend everybody read and get this books!

Can't wait for his new book!

[Jeremy Fowler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Checked this one because I got it also as a gift for a friends little human and I enjoyed this! It was surprisingly deep and tackled some real themes of family dynamics and growing up!

[Aimee Ertley · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 10-year-old son was a very reluctant reader until he encountered this book, but upon picking it up, he flew through it in a few days and was totally captivated by the story. He carried it with him everywhere he went and would read it at every opportunity. I've never seen him respond to a book in this way; he was ready for the sequel as soon as he finished and immediately started rereading, because he didn't want it to end.

I read along with him, and it was easy for me to see why he liked it so much: Bailey's story grabs the reader from page one, and is filled with a colorful cast of engaging, fantastical characters. It was a treat for my son to read and a treat for me, to see him become so engrossed in a story.

I highly recommend The Monster Catchers for 4th/5th graders; my son has told his friends about it, and their moms have reported similar reactions from their kids. Definitely a winner for tweens!

[Tiffany Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got an ARC copy of this and it was super cute. Really enjoyed reading about Bailey Buckleby and his dad's business of Monster catching (buying and selling as well). They have this shop and pretty much do everything dealing in "monsters". Bailey has a sort of younger brother but it is a troll baby, who is more like a monster sized puppy that they call Henry. And you discover that Bailey's mom was swallowed by a huge whale years ago so it's just he and his dad. He likes to believe that his mom is still alive, living inside the whale because legend has it that his ancestry is full of people who could survive inside of whales.

One of the things that is fluent throughout this book is imagination. It definitely does NOT lack in it and I enjoyed this factor. One of the things I did not like was some of the words and monsters had names that were not easily pronounced and I would think that children would perhaps struggle, somewhat, with these words and that kind of bothered me. I found myself sort of abbreviating these words. But, it was rather irksome. I realize this might not be a problem for others but it was definitely something that bothered me and made me wonder about young readers.

Essentially, Bailey ends up meeting a dog-man (half man and half dog) and this dog-man, named Axel Pazuzu, is ancient and magical and makes him question so many things...and one of these things is his faith in his dad's story about Henry really being a Troll baby and what happened to his mom all those years ago. And ultimately, Bailey realizes that Henry is not a Troll baby but is actually the son of two Sea Giants who really want him back and he ends up in the middle of a huge kidnapping where he has to try to rescue Henry so he can return him to his real parents, save his dad, and make amends with his dad.

This book is a great quest for our hero as he sort of comes of age in his journey and he has to deal with all sorts of losses and changes in his life as well. I also liked how the author chose to end the book as he set it up for a sequel and it made me want to read it if he does write another one!

It was a fun adventure and I would certainly recommend it but again, I only wish all the types of characters had names and creature names that were easy to pronounce and if I had been a tween/child reader, that would have made this a bit harder to read and I thought of that as I read it. And since I had an ARC copy, the final copy might have some changes I don't know about but I liked this one a lot!

[Gigi · Rating 4 out of 5]

As soon as I started reading, I got total Ghostbuster and Scooby Doo vibes. But instead of catching ghosts and solving mysteries, this is about a father-son duo chasing after monsters, goblins and dangerous faeries.Being an only child, I connected with Bailey and loved his character. He was smart, kind and brave.

This was such a fun and adventurous story! One that I could picture being turned into a graphic novel or illustrated series. I would highly recommend it for the classroom or if you enjoy middle grade.

[George Brewington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Years ago I walked into a pink-and-white-striped souvenir shop called Patrick's. It stands by itself on Highway 1 in Northern California and the waves of the Pacific practically crash against its back door. I wanted to buy a bag of saltwater taffy, but no one was available to help me, and I heard a horrible, unnerving, lonesome howl coming from behind the shop. Worried that a rabid dog or a werewolf or some other blood-thirsty beast would pounce through the back door and rip me to shreds, I left in a hurry without any saltwater taffy to show for my trouble. I suppose it was an uneventful encounter, but the incident sparked a story in my head. Many questions arose - what if the family that owned that souvenir shop also sold monsters? What kind of monsters would they be? Could they be tamed? What if they escaped sometimes? What would the neighbors think? And if a twelve-year-old boy was raised in the family business, caring for monsters becoming quite normal for him, what would he think about keeping monsters in cages? Would he and his family hunt monsters to keep them from causing trouble in their neighborhood? How much could he tell his classmates and his best friend about the business? And what if San Francisco had been stomped to rubble by sea giants, too? All these questions led to the creation of THE MONSTER CATCHERS. I hope you like the story. I've become quite fond of Bailey Buckleby and his family - they live in my head and continue to have adventures that I am writing down as fast as I possibly can.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Smith Publicity and George Brewington for including me in the blog tour for The Monster Catchers and sending me a copy for an honest review.

The Monster Catchers does what my favourite middle grade books do, mix important world issues with a fun fantasy world. In The Monster Catchers, Bailey and his father hunt and sell monsters. Bailey loves reading and learning about the creatures and strives to understand them. Along the way environmental issues and the nature of understanding differences are all explored within the world. I love having issues beneath fun stories for kids, it helps me as a mother to take a story they love and are entertained by and then delve a little deeper in discussions.

The Monster Catchers is a wonderful story and a great start to a series I will be happy to share with my son when he’s ready.

[Amy Evins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story for a young boy or girl. It is so well written. Mr Brewington brought a new perspective to this genre. His rich character descriptions allowed me to visual and fully understand them. The action that was placed throughout the story was the right amount. It kept me wanting to know what would happen next. Finally I always applaud an author who describes the scenes well. I clearly visualized where the characters where throughout the story. I was right there with them. I can’t wait to see what he writes next!

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

My friend gave me an advance copy of this book and it was amazing! I read together with my 11 year old son who is into Harry Potter and anything monster/fantasy. He absolutely loved it! He held onto every word so much that he actually asked if the Golden Gate Bridge really did get destroyed!! I highly recommend and very appropriate for children 8+.

[Aidan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am 11 years old and I loved this book. I especially like all the foreshadowing in each chapter. I really like the type of monsters the author writes about and all the cool adventures. One of my favorite parts is when Bailey and his Dad fight the Trolls and Axel. Also when Axel makes the fairies drink the Kool-Aid. I highly recommend reading this book, it's awesome!

[Isaac Freed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first couple of chapters. It is fun and captivating, and I am anxiously awaiting publication, so I can read the rest. Better than most of the fiction I have read.

[Maggies Daisy · Rating 4 out of 5]

No matter your size you have talents that make you a formidably adversary to many foes. Baxter Bailey along with his lumber jack size father own a monster pet store along with catching pesky monsters. With the ruins of San Francisco looming in the back ground from either the truth that monsters destroyed it or the government version that suggests that it was destroyed in a earthquake. Baily soon realizes that his life is about to change when a evil dog headed man tries to steal Baileys pet troll Henry. But what if Henry is not really a troll? How could his father be wrong? This was a interesting story with many twists and turns that brought laughs and smiles but also some sadness. There were many fine charectors and hope that this won't be the last we see of Bailey Baxter Monster Catcher and his new business partner.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodreads Giveaway book
I gave this book to my 10 yr. old grandson. He flipped through it, looking to see if it had illustrations, and said "It's mostly print pages. My friend likes books like this." He then set the book down on the table. While we waited to leave to a dinner party he picked the book up and started reading. Then said, "This is really interesting." He continued to read while we drove to our destination, commenting on what he was reading. When we arrived a few minutes later he announced he was "already on page 10". I think this book is a success! It got a kid who dislikes TOO MUCH PRINT, to actually read and enjoy reading!

[Asher Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic debut novel from Mr Brewington. Highly recommend.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story! I thoroughly enjoyed this read!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey takes us into his fantastical world of adventures tracking and catching all sorts of wild creatures and keeps the reader engaged and entertained every step of the way. The whimsical monsters are colorful and dynamic and I found myself wishing the book wouldn’t end. Can’t wait until the sequel!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read! From the first page I connected with Bailey, his dad and what a crazy world he lives. I was excited for every adventure wondering where it would turn next. Highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to go on a grand adventure with monsters and middle schoolers. Can't wait to read more!

[Victoria Ibra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me why I love fantasy for younger readers. It's funny and imaginative and you can't help but fall in love with Bailey Buckleby and his goofy dad. Bailey's friend Savannah is a strong female character which is refreshing. I'm reminded me of Alice in Wonderland ... the "monsters" are unique and have characters of their own. I loved it and I think kids will too. Highly recommend!

[Becky Sherwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and look forward to sharing it.

[Dexter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought that the monster catchers by George Brewington, was a very good read. I thought that it was a great book to read. It was very suspenseful, and incredibly entertaining.

[Juju · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book. A new series with interesting characters that make me look forward to the next.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bailey Buckley and his dad catch monsters for a living. They’ve caught faeries pestering candy stores and goblins infesting gardens. They even own a few exotic creatures, like a baby Swiss mountain troll named Henry. All this should make Bailey super cool, but unfortunately no one at his middle school believes him. One day he becomes friends with the prettiest, smartest girl, Savannah, who accepts he’s telling the truth. Soon the pair stumble upon some shocking stories about Bailey’s dad. It’s possible he’s been lying about what kind of creature Henry is as part of a selfish plot. Hoping to find Mr. Buckley innocent, the kids venture further into the world of monsters to learn the truth.

Initially this book is quite gripping. Unique and refreshing, Bailey Buckley’s voice draws the reader in. The book’s original story line is easy to follow. The characters are well developed and lovable. However, at times the story can become unrealistic, as Savannah and Bailey sound and act older than typical 12-year-olds. Additionally, Mr. Buckley is portrayed as a supportive and responsible father, but every so often behaves contrary to this portrayal, including at one point abandoning his son. Mr. Buckley is also portrayed as stereotypically masculine. He is large and strong, he never cries, and he is prone to anger and violence. Bailey is following in his father’s footsteps, since he tends to fight fire with fire in dealing with his bullies. Savannah joins him in this fighting. Despite the characters’ tempers, they do want to do what is good as they face moral dilemmas, choosing the honorable path even when it is hard. Overall this book is excellent and it should prove a thrilling read for intermediate readers.

*Contains mild language and moderate violence.

++Review originally published on Children's Book and Media Review++
http://byucbmr.com/reviews/the-monste...

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bailey Buckleby is a typical 12 year old boy, who doesn't like social studies and is starting to discover girls. He also works with his dad as a monster catcher in a world that tries to pretend monsters don't exist. When an ancient cecephaly comes sniffing around his shop on the hunt for a baby sea giant, Bailey is in for the adventure of a lifetime.

First of all, I love the colors and design of the cover of this book. That alone made me excited to read it. Second, this is such a great read for tweens. A lot of adventure, a tiny bit of romance, a little bit of drama, and a whole lotta fun. I also love that it ends at the start of a new adventure, the kind that leaves you anxious for the next book. I definitely recommend for your preteen reader!!

[J · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this intending to give it to my nephew and niece. It has a creative plot with interesting characters. I love how loving and supportive Bailey's parents are and that Bailey is able to challenge his dad's opinion for what he thinks is right. I don't like some of the implications made, such as it's okay to hit someone because you think they're ugly or said something you didn't like or that having a physical difference makes you ugly or scary. However, there are enough good messages that I will give it to them anyway, but with a reminder to have empathy for others.

[Nerdy Housewifey · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I’ve been collecting books for my son, so when he’s older we’ll have tons of books to read together. I loved this, it was so exciting and imaginative, I really can’t wait till he’s a little older and we can read it together

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Monster Catchers is a fun and exciting read with well-developed characters and a fast-paced plot. Bailey is a kind and intelligent protagonist, and the world of monsters is sure to grab your attention until the last page!

[Tanya Prax · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Deb Hausmann · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun middle grade book that I would have loved at that age. The idea that a whole world of magic filled with fantasy magical creatures hidden within our own world fascinated me as a child and still does. I love to see how different authors reimagine that idea in our own world such as with Artemis fowl, Percy Jackson, Harry Potter, etc.

My biggest critique is that the book already felt outdated, such as when the protagonist “saved” text messages, despite being published in 2019. Would potentially be a fun read for a young kid, but not worth it for anyone over the age of 12.