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The Sleepover: A Graphic Novel
In this middle grade graphic novel a group of kids are trying to cheer up their friend after a recent loss with a fun-filled sleepover, but their plans soon take a dark turn when they discover his new nanny may literally be a monster.
When the Russo family returns home from vacation to discover their nanny, Ruby, has unexpectedly passed away, Matthew takes the news the hardest. After weeks of reeling, his three best friends decide to cheer him up with a night of junk food, prank calls, and scary movies. But their plans for a sleepover are jeopardized when Matt's single mother--unable to take any more time off of work--is forced to hire a new nanny on the fly to watch over Matt and his younger sister, Judy.
Miss Swan, however, is all too happy to have the boys over. And although she seems like the perfect babysitter, letting the kids eat whatever they want and mostly leaving them alone, there's something about her that Matt doesn't trust. He thinks she may actually be the witch from local legend--the one who torments children into the night and then eats them. Is he just having a hard time dealing with Ruby's replacement, as his friends suspect? Has he watched one too many scary movies, as his mom fears? Or are he and his horror-buff friends in for the fright of their lives as they come face-to-face with a real monster?
When the Russo family returns home from vacation to discover their nanny, Ruby, has unexpectedly passed away, Matthew takes the news the hardest. After weeks of reeling, his three best friends decide to cheer him up with a night of junk food, prank calls, and scary movies. But their plans for a sleepover are jeopardized when Matt's single mother--unable to take any more time off of work--is forced to hire a new nanny on the fly to watch over Matt and his younger sister, Judy.
Miss Swan, however, is all too happy to have the boys over. And although she seems like the perfect babysitter, letting the kids eat whatever they want and mostly leaving them alone, there's something about her that Matt doesn't trust. He thinks she may actually be the witch from local legend--the one who torments children into the night and then eats them. Is he just having a hard time dealing with Ruby's replacement, as his friends suspect? Has he watched one too many scary movies, as his mom fears? Or are he and his horror-buff friends in for the fright of their lives as they come face-to-face with a real monster?
224 pages, Hardcover
First published November 9, 2021
38 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Michael Regina
8 books36 followersMichael Regina is the writer and illustrator behind the all-ages horror graphic novels Deepwater Creek, The Sleepover, and the Adamsville trilogy. He’s been drawing comics since the third grade, and his passion for art and storytelling has only grown since. Michael studied painting and drawing at the University of North Florida, where he also minored in literature.
When he’s not making comics, he enjoys fishing, playing RPGs, cheering on the Jacksonville Jaguars, and spending time with his family. They all live in Jacksonville, Florida.
You can visit him at www.michaeleregina.com
When he’s not making comics, he enjoys fishing, playing RPGs, cheering on the Jacksonville Jaguars, and spending time with his family. They all live in Jacksonville, Florida.
You can visit him at www.michaeleregina.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
April 4, 2023
I'm calling all fans of Stranger Things to the table! I haven't even seen the show, but it definitely gives me those vibes. 3.5 Stars CW: death of a loved one, grief, violence
The Sleepover follows the Russo family who has a nanny by the name of Ruby. Ruby essentially serves as a caregiver and companion to every individual in the family. Unfortunately, Ruby suddenly passes away while the Russo's are away on vacation. Matt doesn't take her death well and has trouble adjusting when his mother is forced to return back to work. She finds another nanny by the name of Miss Swan to watch both Matt and Ruby; however, Matt quickly notices that there is something wrong with her. When Matt's three best friends come over to spend the night, they learn that Miss Swan might actually be the witch of the woods that the kids fear.
What Worked: The exploration of grief in this one was GREAT. I mean absolutely amazing. Matt struggles so much with the lose of Ruby that it begins to impact his relationship with his friends, Ruby, and his mother. It's an extremely realistic portrayal of what that age group would feel at the loss of someone so close to them. I was amazed at Judy's character development. She was the sweetest and most empathetic character. My daughter is similar in that she's very aware of the experiences and emotions of others so it was great seeing an older character behave in the same way. It's Judy's empathy that helps the characters understand and see Ms. Swan through a different lens. There were definitely some horror elements that middle graders will enjoy. I also appreciated that Regina gave Miss Swan a complex background. It illustrated this idea that people handle grief differently and sometimes grief can turn people into unkind, uncaring, and unloving humans. While a little of this is seen in Matt, the extreme version of this is visible in Miss Swan.
What Didn't Work: This is definitely a me thing, but Ruby is Black and some of her character development felt a little stereotypical. She fits that trope of the Black character who has insightful knowledge that supports/assists White protagonists. It didn't completely bother me while reading it; however, I was aware of it when Matt starts having flashbacks about his relationship with Ruby. I'm sure that there wasn't an ill intention behind Regina's inclusion of her as a character; however, it is my duty as a reviewer to point that out. I also wish that readers were provided with a little more insight to the backstory of Matt's friends. They were interesting, but I don't feel like I knew enough about them especially since they played a big role in conclusion of the story.
Overall, this was a solid read and I enjoyed it. If you have a reader that enjoys spooky books then this will be the one for them to check out.
The Sleepover follows the Russo family who has a nanny by the name of Ruby. Ruby essentially serves as a caregiver and companion to every individual in the family. Unfortunately, Ruby suddenly passes away while the Russo's are away on vacation. Matt doesn't take her death well and has trouble adjusting when his mother is forced to return back to work. She finds another nanny by the name of Miss Swan to watch both Matt and Ruby; however, Matt quickly notices that there is something wrong with her. When Matt's three best friends come over to spend the night, they learn that Miss Swan might actually be the witch of the woods that the kids fear.
What Worked: The exploration of grief in this one was GREAT. I mean absolutely amazing. Matt struggles so much with the lose of Ruby that it begins to impact his relationship with his friends, Ruby, and his mother. It's an extremely realistic portrayal of what that age group would feel at the loss of someone so close to them. I was amazed at Judy's character development. She was the sweetest and most empathetic character. My daughter is similar in that she's very aware of the experiences and emotions of others so it was great seeing an older character behave in the same way. It's Judy's empathy that helps the characters understand and see Ms. Swan through a different lens. There were definitely some horror elements that middle graders will enjoy. I also appreciated that Regina gave Miss Swan a complex background. It illustrated this idea that people handle grief differently and sometimes grief can turn people into unkind, uncaring, and unloving humans. While a little of this is seen in Matt, the extreme version of this is visible in Miss Swan.
What Didn't Work: This is definitely a me thing, but Ruby is Black and some of her character development felt a little stereotypical. She fits that trope of the Black character who has insightful knowledge that supports/assists White protagonists. It didn't completely bother me while reading it; however, I was aware of it when Matt starts having flashbacks about his relationship with Ruby. I'm sure that there wasn't an ill intention behind Regina's inclusion of her as a character; however, it is my duty as a reviewer to point that out. I also wish that readers were provided with a little more insight to the backstory of Matt's friends. They were interesting, but I don't feel like I knew enough about them especially since they played a big role in conclusion of the story.
Overall, this was a solid read and I enjoyed it. If you have a reader that enjoys spooky books then this will be the one for them to check out.
December 9, 2021
A spooky story for kids about a new nanny who is really a witch. It's a book about dealing with loss. It's a book about killing bird women who are trying to kidnap your sister. It's got a Stranger Things vibe to it.
Received a review copy from Razorbill and Edelweiss.
Received a review copy from Razorbill and Edelweiss.
January 13, 2023
This was such a great way to approach grief at a middle grade level but still maintain interest and momentum! I think upper elementary and middle school kids will enjoy this one - especially the ones who enjoy scary movies!
October 7, 2024
Re-read 2024: A lot of fun again! Perfect for Halloween!
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Spooky and scary, but also sad because it also deals with loss and mourning a loved one.
I was hoping so much hoping that this one would be scary. That this one would be OMG NOPE. Because I have been disappointed by quite a few MG horror reads this month (read this one in January). And I can say that it was scary! And got more scary as the story continued!
In this one we meet Matt. A boy who lives with his mom, his sister, and yes, his nanny in a nice home near a lake. With an ominous forest next to it. As soon as the forest was mentioned and that kids kept disappearing if they just dared to go into it, I was fully in it! I needed to know what lives there. Who it was. What happened to them. Also what is up with the ravens? When Matt’s nanny dies they need a new one and in pops the scary new nanny. I was just like Matt. Noping the way out of everything. This woman just had an aura of RUN AWAY or she will EAT you. Had a laugh that the mom was clearly not awake enough to notice. I mean, it was just so obvious. At first it seems that she was just being mysterious and scary, but BOY when she showed her true side I was terrified. Also those teeth! What follows next is scary! I was definitely on the edge of my seat and needed to know if all the kids would be safe! If everything would go well! I loved the kids and their plans and I was rooting for them. I don’t want to tell too much!
I also love that we find out more about the witch and what happened to her. It doesn’t excuse what she did, but I did feel sorry for her. At least, who she used to be.
Then there is also a big part of the book being about grief. Mourning. Because quite early on in the book Matt and Judy’s nanny, who they love very much, died. And they are trying to find a way through the sadness. They are angry, sad, feeling alone. It was well-written and while at times I thought it wasn’t too fitting, for most I did like it.
And I am sorry, but I just wasn’t a fan of Judy. I get that she is very young, but she was just so persistent and it annoyed me how she was so clingy with her brother. He just wanted to have some fun with friends. To watch horror movies. While he could have been a bit nicer at times when she was clingy again, I can also imagine why he was that way. I mean, if she does this every time, every day, I can imagine that one day it is just TOO much.
I also found it so American. XD With how the mom had to work super late and still wasn’t paid enough it seems. How after the loss of someone she just had to work very soon after or lose her job. WTF is wrong with you America? Also having a nanny who just lives with you? Or is always there? I mean, we have baby-sitters here for evenings or short hours, but I don’t know anyone who has or had a nanny almost all day at their homes.
The ending made me smile!
I really liked the art in the book, loved the character designs, loved the spookiness.
All in all, recommended!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
==================
Spooky and scary, but also sad because it also deals with loss and mourning a loved one.
I was hoping so much hoping that this one would be scary. That this one would be OMG NOPE. Because I have been disappointed by quite a few MG horror reads this month (read this one in January). And I can say that it was scary! And got more scary as the story continued!
In this one we meet Matt. A boy who lives with his mom, his sister, and yes, his nanny in a nice home near a lake. With an ominous forest next to it. As soon as the forest was mentioned and that kids kept disappearing if they just dared to go into it, I was fully in it! I needed to know what lives there. Who it was. What happened to them. Also what is up with the ravens? When Matt’s nanny dies they need a new one and in pops the scary new nanny. I was just like Matt. Noping the way out of everything. This woman just had an aura of RUN AWAY or she will EAT you. Had a laugh that the mom was clearly not awake enough to notice. I mean, it was just so obvious. At first it seems that she was just being mysterious and scary, but BOY when she showed her true side I was terrified. Also those teeth! What follows next is scary! I was definitely on the edge of my seat and needed to know if all the kids would be safe! If everything would go well! I loved the kids and their plans and I was rooting for them. I don’t want to tell too much!
I also love that we find out more about the witch and what happened to her. It doesn’t excuse what she did, but I did feel sorry for her. At least, who she used to be.
Then there is also a big part of the book being about grief. Mourning. Because quite early on in the book Matt and Judy’s nanny, who they love very much, died. And they are trying to find a way through the sadness. They are angry, sad, feeling alone. It was well-written and while at times I thought it wasn’t too fitting, for most I did like it.
And I am sorry, but I just wasn’t a fan of Judy. I get that she is very young, but she was just so persistent and it annoyed me how she was so clingy with her brother. He just wanted to have some fun with friends. To watch horror movies. While he could have been a bit nicer at times when she was clingy again, I can also imagine why he was that way. I mean, if she does this every time, every day, I can imagine that one day it is just TOO much.
I also found it so American. XD With how the mom had to work super late and still wasn’t paid enough it seems. How after the loss of someone she just had to work very soon after or lose her job. WTF is wrong with you America? Also having a nanny who just lives with you? Or is always there? I mean, we have baby-sitters here for evenings or short hours, but I don’t know anyone who has or had a nanny almost all day at their homes.
The ending made me smile!
I really liked the art in the book, loved the character designs, loved the spookiness.
All in all, recommended!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
October 10, 2021
I am laughing because as I was finishing the graphic novel galley I was thinking- this would be a perfect readalike for kids that liked Stranger Things-- and then I read the summary and it says "perfect for those liking Stranger Things"!
It's a fun Halloween-esuqe but creepy middle grade graphic novel about a boy and his friends (and little sister) fighting back against the demons of their new nanny/babysitter whose family was murdered for being accused of being witches, tying into the ghost stories of their area. And the kids take back the night and fight back against Ms. Swan to find her humanity once again. One that was preying upon little kids for accusing her family of witchcraft.
I like the hero journey that the boy goes on to save his family and friends when confronting his own grief after losing his previous nanny unexpectedly. It's got all of the trappings of a great middle grade graphic novel including intricate crow artwork similar to Miss Peregrine's while also feeling like the beginnings of a great horror novel.
It's a fun Halloween-esuqe but creepy middle grade graphic novel about a boy and his friends (and little sister) fighting back against the demons of their new nanny/babysitter whose family was murdered for being accused of being witches, tying into the ghost stories of their area. And the kids take back the night and fight back against Ms. Swan to find her humanity once again. One that was preying upon little kids for accusing her family of witchcraft.
I like the hero journey that the boy goes on to save his family and friends when confronting his own grief after losing his previous nanny unexpectedly. It's got all of the trappings of a great middle grade graphic novel including intricate crow artwork similar to Miss Peregrine's while also feeling like the beginnings of a great horror novel.
September 19, 2023
I chose this graphic novel simply because the cover gave me Stranger Things vibes, and it really came through! Perfect for the readathon!
March 12, 2023
So happy I finally read this. What a spooky, creepy at times graphic novel, with a focus on themes of loss/grief. Loved this. When the Russo family returns home from vacation to discover their nanny, Ruby, has unexpectedly passed away, Matthew takes the news the hardest. After weeks of reeling, his 3 best friends decide to cheer him up with a night of junk food, prank calls, & scary movies. But their plans for a sleepover are jeopardized when Matt's single mother-unable to take any more time off of work-is forced to hire a new nanny on the fly to watch over Matt & his younger sister, Judy. Miss Swan, however, is all too happy to have the boys over. And although she seems like the perfect babysitter, letting the kids eat whatever they want & mostly leaving them alone, there's something about her that Matt doesn't trust. He thinks she may actually be the witch from local legend--the one who torments children into the night & then eats them. Is he just having a hard time dealing with Ruby's replacement, as his friends suspect? Has he watched one too many scary movies, as his mom fears? Or are he & his horror-buff friends in for the fright of their lives as they come face-to-face with a real monster? I think this is such a raw & honest exploration of grief. The author handled it so well. Even tying the "witchs" story in with what started with heavy grief for her. Great friendships & family themes in here as well. Loved it all. BEAUTIFUL art by the author also. Highly recommend.💜
October 8, 2022
I really liked the art style and the coloring of it. It was a fun premise. Perfect for October
January 21, 2025
Als de familie Russo terugkeert van vakantie en ontdekt dat hun oppas, Ruby, is overleden, komt dat nieuws vooral bij Matt erg hard aan. Zijn vrienden proberen hem af te leiden met een avond vol junkfood en horrorfilms.
Maar hun plannen worden verstoord door de komst van de nieuwe oppas. Matt voelt direct dat er iets niet klopt. Heeft hij te veel enge films gekeken of is zijn nieuwe oppas écht een monster?
Nooit eerder had ik een graphic novel gelezen, dus ik was heel erg benieuwd hoe dit mij zou bevallen.
Dit verhaal begint met een proloog en hier lees je over Matt, zijn zusje en moeder én over oppas Ruby. Hun band is heel sterk en als niet veel later Ruby overlijdt, heeft Matt het er heel erg moeilijk mee.
Zijn moeder gaat haastig op zoek naar een nieuwe oppas, want ze moet werken en kan haar kinderen niet zomaar alleen laten.
Op een dag is er de nieuwe oppas, maar Matt heeft al meteen het gevoel dat er dingen niet aan haar kloppen en vanaf hier begint het dan ook spannender te worden. Iedereen denkt dat Matt zich dingen inbeeldt, maar Matt is er zeker van overtuigd dat de oppas slechte dingen van plan is...
Dit verhaal las natuurlijk anders dan een normaal geschreven verhaal, maar toch vond ik dit een leuke ervaring. De plaatjes zijn leuk en het leest gewoon heel makkelijk en snel.
Het verhaal zelf vond ik oké. Het thema 'omgaan met rouw' vond ik goed weergegeven en de opbouwende spanning was ook goed. Het is alleen niet het allerbeste verhaal uit de Horrorland reeks en ik weet nu niet goed of dat kwam omdat het een graphic novel was, maar ik werd niet helemaal het verhaal ingezogen.
Toch was dit zeker leuk om eens te lezen en ik wil @kluitman / @horror_kluitman heel erg bedanken voor dit mooie recensie-exemplaar!
Beoordeling: 3,0 ⭐️
Maar hun plannen worden verstoord door de komst van de nieuwe oppas. Matt voelt direct dat er iets niet klopt. Heeft hij te veel enge films gekeken of is zijn nieuwe oppas écht een monster?
Nooit eerder had ik een graphic novel gelezen, dus ik was heel erg benieuwd hoe dit mij zou bevallen.
Dit verhaal begint met een proloog en hier lees je over Matt, zijn zusje en moeder én over oppas Ruby. Hun band is heel sterk en als niet veel later Ruby overlijdt, heeft Matt het er heel erg moeilijk mee.
Zijn moeder gaat haastig op zoek naar een nieuwe oppas, want ze moet werken en kan haar kinderen niet zomaar alleen laten.
Op een dag is er de nieuwe oppas, maar Matt heeft al meteen het gevoel dat er dingen niet aan haar kloppen en vanaf hier begint het dan ook spannender te worden. Iedereen denkt dat Matt zich dingen inbeeldt, maar Matt is er zeker van overtuigd dat de oppas slechte dingen van plan is...
Dit verhaal las natuurlijk anders dan een normaal geschreven verhaal, maar toch vond ik dit een leuke ervaring. De plaatjes zijn leuk en het leest gewoon heel makkelijk en snel.
Het verhaal zelf vond ik oké. Het thema 'omgaan met rouw' vond ik goed weergegeven en de opbouwende spanning was ook goed. Het is alleen niet het allerbeste verhaal uit de Horrorland reeks en ik weet nu niet goed of dat kwam omdat het een graphic novel was, maar ik werd niet helemaal het verhaal ingezogen.
Toch was dit zeker leuk om eens te lezen en ik wil @kluitman / @horror_kluitman heel erg bedanken voor dit mooie recensie-exemplaar!
Beoordeling: 3,0 ⭐️
January 4, 2022
This graphic novel took me completely by surprise and I absolutely loved it. Matt and Judy are heartbroken when their beloved nanny, Ruby, passes away. When their new nanny Miss Swan arrives Matt immediately knows something isn't quite right. His friends soon arrive for their sleepover ready to eat loads of junk food and watch scary movie after scary movie. They do not realizer that they will be starring in their own scary movie. I loved the friend group and it gave me major Stranger Things/Goonies vibes.
November 9, 2021
This was a great mix of a creepy story and an exploration of grief. Highly recommend!
January 22, 2025
Titel: De horrornacht
Auteur: Michael Regina
Serie/Standalone: Horrorland 14
Genre: Jeugdhorror
Uitgeverij: Kluitman
Gelezen van: 20-01-'25 tot: 21-01-'25
Pagina's: 221
Exemplaar: Hardcover (Verrassingspost)
Flaptekst:
Als de familie Russo terugkeert van vakantie en hoort dat hun geliefde oppas onverwachts is overleden, komt dat nieuws vooral bij Matt erg hard aan. Zijn vrienden proberen hem af te leiden met een avond vol junkfood en horrorfilms, maar hun plannen worden verstoord door de komst van de nieuwe oppas. Hoewel ze op het eerste gezicht perfect lijkt, heeft Matt het gevoel dat er iets niet klopt. Heeft hij te veel enge films gekeken of is zijn nieuwe oppas écht een monster?
Favoriete quote:
'Ze lokt je het bos in, en als je daar eenmaal bent, wil ze wraak. Dan achtervolgt ze je...'
Over het boek:
Wat de flipsaus! Wat is dit een fantastisch boek! Dit 14e deel in de Horrorland-serie. Máár de eerste in de vorm van een graphic novel.
Dit boek is geschreven en geïllustreerd door Michael Regina. Michael tekent al strips sinds hij in groep 5 zat, en zijn passie voor kunst en verhalen is nooit meer overgegaan. En dát is te zien en te lezen in 'De horrornacht'!
Bereid je voor op de engste logeerpartij ooit...
*Kraa!* *Kraa!*
De proloog brengt ons naar het jaar 1993. De tijd waarin The X-Files floreerde. It brings back memories. Het is in ieder geval een serie waar de jongens graag naar kijken. Matthew (Matt), Mario, Teo. Maar Charlie liever niet. Te eng! De perfecte basis om lekker mee te griezelen.
*Kraa!* *Kraa!*
Maar dit boek is zó veel meer dan dat. Met herinneringen aan het verleden die een all the feels-effect met zich meebrengen. Waarin de kracht van liefde centraal staat. Want wat je in je hart bewaart, raak je nooit meer kwijt.
Aantal hartjes: ♡♡♡♡♡
Auteur: Michael Regina
Serie/Standalone: Horrorland 14
Genre: Jeugdhorror
Uitgeverij: Kluitman
Gelezen van: 20-01-'25 tot: 21-01-'25
Pagina's: 221
Exemplaar: Hardcover (Verrassingspost)
Flaptekst:
Als de familie Russo terugkeert van vakantie en hoort dat hun geliefde oppas onverwachts is overleden, komt dat nieuws vooral bij Matt erg hard aan. Zijn vrienden proberen hem af te leiden met een avond vol junkfood en horrorfilms, maar hun plannen worden verstoord door de komst van de nieuwe oppas. Hoewel ze op het eerste gezicht perfect lijkt, heeft Matt het gevoel dat er iets niet klopt. Heeft hij te veel enge films gekeken of is zijn nieuwe oppas écht een monster?
Favoriete quote:
'Ze lokt je het bos in, en als je daar eenmaal bent, wil ze wraak. Dan achtervolgt ze je...'
Over het boek:
Wat de flipsaus! Wat is dit een fantastisch boek! Dit 14e deel in de Horrorland-serie. Máár de eerste in de vorm van een graphic novel.
Dit boek is geschreven en geïllustreerd door Michael Regina. Michael tekent al strips sinds hij in groep 5 zat, en zijn passie voor kunst en verhalen is nooit meer overgegaan. En dát is te zien en te lezen in 'De horrornacht'!
Bereid je voor op de engste logeerpartij ooit...
*Kraa!* *Kraa!*
De proloog brengt ons naar het jaar 1993. De tijd waarin The X-Files floreerde. It brings back memories. Het is in ieder geval een serie waar de jongens graag naar kijken. Matthew (Matt), Mario, Teo. Maar Charlie liever niet. Te eng! De perfecte basis om lekker mee te griezelen.
*Kraa!* *Kraa!*
Maar dit boek is zó veel meer dan dat. Met herinneringen aan het verleden die een all the feels-effect met zich meebrengen. Waarin de kracht van liefde centraal staat. Want wat je in je hart bewaart, raak je nooit meer kwijt.
Aantal hartjes: ♡♡♡♡♡
Read
October 5, 2022I would give this 3.5 if I were going to rate it I guess, but I'm not because I know this genre is not really my thing and it seems unfair to rate it based on that alone.
The illustrations are great and I know kids will love this. I wanted to read it before it went into our library so that I knew how scary it was when recommending it to kids. I have so many kids asking for exactly this type of book right now and I know it'll be a hit. It went out the first day I put it on the shelf.
The illustrations are great and I know kids will love this. I wanted to read it before it went into our library so that I knew how scary it was when recommending it to kids. I have so many kids asking for exactly this type of book right now and I know it'll be a hit. It went out the first day I put it on the shelf.
October 9, 2022
Lucy said that it was awesome and I need to bring home more books that are the same amount of scariness.
January 7, 2024
Cute little romp. Will be good gateway horror for a lot of people!
August 26, 2022
This book would be a great introduction to horror for kids who are looking for something a little scary! I enjoyed the story and the messages behind it. It is by a Christian writer if that floats your boat.
October 9, 2025
Una novela gráfica de terror bastante entretenida donde una bruja tratara de cobrar venganza. Además toca un tema delicado como es la muerte de un ser querido y el proceso del duelo.
January 12, 2024
I mean, I could see a kid liking this, but also, as an adult: Excuse me, wtf?
So, like, this starts off with five kids (two siblings, three friends of the older male sibling) having a sleepover and watching scary movies. Some lightning cracks and an older black woman comes in to tell them to sit in the living room with all the electronics turned off. None of the kids are black. The sibling's mom comes home (turns out we're in their house) and thanks the older lady (Ruby? or Judy? the older sibling's younger sister is named Judy? or Ruby?) and we find out she's their nanny, I think? The mom and she are awfully familiar with each other.
Fast forward a couple weeks? months? and she--the nanny--fucking dies??! Randomly? Like, literally just--wham!--dead. There's no explanation given. We get a funeral scene, and the older sibling shown in grief and people trying to understand why/comfort him. We're then shown several scenes of the nanny being in all their family pictures and I--the reader--am suddenly really confused. They've never actually called Ruby-Judy a nanny, so is she actually the partner of the mom? (Spoiler: she's their nanny and her entire existence is to bolster the white main characters, because, of course it is. Oh, she's also "magic" because can't be a kid's graphic novel without that trope).
Ahem.
Turns out, the mom is single for reasons unknown and Ruby-Judy loved their family so much she worked for them for cheap? or free? Now the mom, who has to work, can't afford to get another nanny and decides to hire some random lady with a Transylvanian accent probably (she wears all black, has long black hair, and ravens follow her everywhere) to watch her kids so she can go back to work. Oh, one important thing: one of the things the kids were talking about in the beginning of this when Ruby-Judy was still alive was some crow-witch lady who lived in the copse (also, wtf Goodreads, copse is a word...) behind their house.
Anyway, yadda, yadda this is getting long. Turns out the lady is the crowwitch and she was cursed? blessed? with the ability to...look like a weird giant crow? Because her daughters befriended crows waaaaaaaaaaaaaay back in the day and some villager children saw and so her entire family was killed for witchcraft while this lady was (btw I legit don't even remember her name...like, Regina tried to humanize her, but...) out doing...something? She's just not there when her family is killed. And now, as revenge, wants to kill children? or kidnap them?
The kids try to fight her, but the younger sister, Judy-Ruby (who is ABSOLUTELY INSUFFERABLE) is all mad about something so just lets herself get captured? And then their mom comes home and is like, "Huh?" and faints and LAYS ON THE COUCH DOING NOTHING FOR THE ENTIRE REST OF THE NOVEL. She's awake, but just...lays there?
So, the kids try to go rescue Judy-Ruby and the crowwitch wants to make her her daughter and the crows attack them and, oh, this entire time the older sibling was getting, like...premonitions from Ruby-Judy from the afterlife or something and she basically told him the same thing his friends have been saying this whole time: every monster has its weakness. She, apparently, gave the older sibling a salt magic trinket (which he calls "stupid" and I found that weird because isn't he supposed to be "grieving" for Ruby-Judy (it was at this point that I realized I didn't know which was named what and seriously questioned why Regina would use to so similar sounding names)).
So, they go to rescue the little sister and the older sibling tries to reason with the crowwitch by telling her it's not her fault or some shit and she's all like, "No! I'm evil and want to kill you." Which, at first, I was like, "Okay, that's cool," but then realized why Regina actually did that after reading his Acknowledgements. The older sibling kills her with the salt and then she...thanks him.
A few months later, they've got a new nanny and have made her a part of the family and everything is fine and dandy. Then Regina ends this all with some trumpet call about the power of Christ and nah. I am 100% not about that shit. I mean, I can *see* how this has such good reviews. It's a "fun", Stranger Things-esque approach to middle-grade grief and loss, but, man, the power of Christ compels me to give this one star.
So, like, this starts off with five kids (two siblings, three friends of the older male sibling) having a sleepover and watching scary movies. Some lightning cracks and an older black woman comes in to tell them to sit in the living room with all the electronics turned off. None of the kids are black. The sibling's mom comes home (turns out we're in their house) and thanks the older lady (Ruby? or Judy? the older sibling's younger sister is named Judy? or Ruby?) and we find out she's their nanny, I think? The mom and she are awfully familiar with each other.
Fast forward a couple weeks? months? and she--the nanny--fucking dies??! Randomly? Like, literally just--wham!--dead. There's no explanation given. We get a funeral scene, and the older sibling shown in grief and people trying to understand why/comfort him. We're then shown several scenes of the nanny being in all their family pictures and I--the reader--am suddenly really confused. They've never actually called Ruby-Judy a nanny, so is she actually the partner of the mom? (Spoiler: she's their nanny and her entire existence is to bolster the white main characters, because, of course it is. Oh, she's also "magic" because can't be a kid's graphic novel without that trope).
Ahem.
Turns out, the mom is single for reasons unknown and Ruby-Judy loved their family so much she worked for them for cheap? or free? Now the mom, who has to work, can't afford to get another nanny and decides to hire some random lady with a Transylvanian accent probably (she wears all black, has long black hair, and ravens follow her everywhere) to watch her kids so she can go back to work. Oh, one important thing: one of the things the kids were talking about in the beginning of this when Ruby-Judy was still alive was some crow-witch lady who lived in the copse (also, wtf Goodreads, copse is a word...) behind their house.
Anyway, yadda, yadda this is getting long. Turns out the lady is the crowwitch and she was cursed? blessed? with the ability to...look like a weird giant crow? Because her daughters befriended crows waaaaaaaaaaaaaay back in the day and some villager children saw and so her entire family was killed for witchcraft while this lady was (btw I legit don't even remember her name...like, Regina tried to humanize her, but...) out doing...something? She's just not there when her family is killed. And now, as revenge, wants to kill children? or kidnap them?
The kids try to fight her, but the younger sister, Judy-Ruby (who is ABSOLUTELY INSUFFERABLE) is all mad about something so just lets herself get captured? And then their mom comes home and is like, "Huh?" and faints and LAYS ON THE COUCH DOING NOTHING FOR THE ENTIRE REST OF THE NOVEL. She's awake, but just...lays there?
So, the kids try to go rescue Judy-Ruby and the crowwitch wants to make her her daughter and the crows attack them and, oh, this entire time the older sibling was getting, like...premonitions from Ruby-Judy from the afterlife or something and she basically told him the same thing his friends have been saying this whole time: every monster has its weakness. She, apparently, gave the older sibling a salt magic trinket (which he calls "stupid" and I found that weird because isn't he supposed to be "grieving" for Ruby-Judy (it was at this point that I realized I didn't know which was named what and seriously questioned why Regina would use to so similar sounding names)).
So, they go to rescue the little sister and the older sibling tries to reason with the crowwitch by telling her it's not her fault or some shit and she's all like, "No! I'm evil and want to kill you." Which, at first, I was like, "Okay, that's cool," but then realized why Regina actually did that after reading his Acknowledgements. The older sibling kills her with the salt and then she...thanks him.
A few months later, they've got a new nanny and have made her a part of the family and everything is fine and dandy. Then Regina ends this all with some trumpet call about the power of Christ and nah. I am 100% not about that shit. I mean, I can *see* how this has such good reviews. It's a "fun", Stranger Things-esque approach to middle-grade grief and loss, but, man, the power of Christ compels me to give this one star.
February 14, 2022
This graphic novel was quite the surprise. With a great mix of characters and a storyline that lead me down different roads, this middle school graphic novel is great for those who enjoy a chilling read. This story had its share of emotions as the characters become involved in their own mystery.
When the family of three returned home from vacation, they realized their beloved Nanny Ruby, would not be returning which broke their hearts. Mom needed to return to work so she starts looking for another nanny for her children. Matt has taken the news of Ruby’s death the hardest and his friends have arrived to have a sleepover with him. Armed with food and scary movies, the boys have made plans to make this a fun night for Matt. I really enjoyed this mixed bunch of boys which made up Matt’s friends. Forced to return to work, Mom hires Miss Swan as their nanny, to watch Matt and his sister Judy. Miss Swan’s first night will be the night of the sleepover.
Judy is such a great character to have in this book, as she’s the youngest of the bunch which could mean that she’s immature but it could mean that she’s fearless, especially around all these boys. When I read that the new nanny was “Miss Swan”, I immediately thought The Black Lagoon books, as I thought something creepy was bound to happen surrounding her. It’s funny how a name can trigger an image and get your head going. Miss Swan surpassed what I had thought or what I could have even imaged. Mother had to get back to work or lose her job and Miss Swan was her only option, what an option!
This book was a great adventure and I liked the wide variety of characters. The graphics in the book were easy to follow although at times, I had to look back at the previous textboxes to help me distinguish between the different characters. I thought that by looking at just their faces in some of the textboxes, I couldn’t tell them apart. I can see individuals who like their middle school books a little on the spooky side loving this book. 4.5 stars
When the family of three returned home from vacation, they realized their beloved Nanny Ruby, would not be returning which broke their hearts. Mom needed to return to work so she starts looking for another nanny for her children. Matt has taken the news of Ruby’s death the hardest and his friends have arrived to have a sleepover with him. Armed with food and scary movies, the boys have made plans to make this a fun night for Matt. I really enjoyed this mixed bunch of boys which made up Matt’s friends. Forced to return to work, Mom hires Miss Swan as their nanny, to watch Matt and his sister Judy. Miss Swan’s first night will be the night of the sleepover.
Judy is such a great character to have in this book, as she’s the youngest of the bunch which could mean that she’s immature but it could mean that she’s fearless, especially around all these boys. When I read that the new nanny was “Miss Swan”, I immediately thought The Black Lagoon books, as I thought something creepy was bound to happen surrounding her. It’s funny how a name can trigger an image and get your head going. Miss Swan surpassed what I had thought or what I could have even imaged. Mother had to get back to work or lose her job and Miss Swan was her only option, what an option!
This book was a great adventure and I liked the wide variety of characters. The graphics in the book were easy to follow although at times, I had to look back at the previous textboxes to help me distinguish between the different characters. I thought that by looking at just their faces in some of the textboxes, I couldn’t tell them apart. I can see individuals who like their middle school books a little on the spooky side loving this book. 4.5 stars
May 13, 2025
I truly loved this book. Although it absolutely serves as a great introduction to the thriller genre for middle grade readers, I believe this book could be a great fit for any readers above the middle grade age.
The Sleepover, a middle grade graphic novel, tells the story of a boy named Matthew mourning his late babysitter, Ruby, while being terrified of his new babysitter, Miss Swan, who he believes is the Witch of the Woods, a villainous local legend. With its spooky and cinematic vibe, this novel delves into very serious and important concepts such as coping with death and experiencing the grieving process as a youth. Although extremely heartbreaking, I appreciated seeing Matthew's journey through grief and how Ruby's death not only impacted him, but how his reactions to Ruby's death influenced his personal and familial relationships (being distant, not wanting physical affection, experiencing bitterness and irritability). The complex emotionality of Matthew is memorable, and I truly hope that readers could either emphasize with Matthew's experience or learn something from the way he coped.
Overall, this was everything I would want out of a middle grade graphic novel and I think it is a great read for middle-grade audiences.
The Sleepover, a middle grade graphic novel, tells the story of a boy named Matthew mourning his late babysitter, Ruby, while being terrified of his new babysitter, Miss Swan, who he believes is the Witch of the Woods, a villainous local legend. With its spooky and cinematic vibe, this novel delves into very serious and important concepts such as coping with death and experiencing the grieving process as a youth. Although extremely heartbreaking, I appreciated seeing Matthew's journey through grief and how Ruby's death not only impacted him, but how his reactions to Ruby's death influenced his personal and familial relationships (being distant, not wanting physical affection, experiencing bitterness and irritability). The complex emotionality of Matthew is memorable, and I truly hope that readers could either emphasize with Matthew's experience or learn something from the way he coped.
Overall, this was everything I would want out of a middle grade graphic novel and I think it is a great read for middle-grade audiences.
January 15, 2022
Matt and Judy are devastated when their nanny, Ruby dies. Matt, especially has a hard time getting over her death. When their mother hires a new nanny, Ms. Swan, Matt is convinced that she is the witch from the woods who wants to kill them.
Matt lives on the outskirts of the woods. No one goes into to woods - not even the police. Many people have disappeared from the town and it is believed that they went into the woods. There is an old legend of a witch, whose family was accused of witchcraft and murdered many years ago. The witch was not home at the time, so she was not killed. But she makes a deals and is transformed into a monster that seeks revenge and kills anyone that comes into her woods.
This book is a really good, creepy graphic novel. I think kids will love the supernatural element of this book. I think the story was good and I liked how the friend all worked together. I think the dark colored artwork - done mostly in black and white - enhanced the creepiness of the story.
Matt lives on the outskirts of the woods. No one goes into to woods - not even the police. Many people have disappeared from the town and it is believed that they went into the woods. There is an old legend of a witch, whose family was accused of witchcraft and murdered many years ago. The witch was not home at the time, so she was not killed. But she makes a deals and is transformed into a monster that seeks revenge and kills anyone that comes into her woods.
This book is a really good, creepy graphic novel. I think kids will love the supernatural element of this book. I think the story was good and I liked how the friend all worked together. I think the dark colored artwork - done mostly in black and white - enhanced the creepiness of the story.
January 23, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed the The Sleepover by Michael Regina - as did the eight-year-old budding horror fan who lives in my house. Plenty of authentic scares and lots of real heart make for an excellent read. Recommended for fans of middle grade horror and graphic novels (a combination this reader wants more of).
December 26, 2021
A fun spooky adventure with an early 90s late 80s feel. Matt's life has been tough since his family lost the nanny, his second mom, Ruby. With his mom forced to find a replacement to get back to work to support them, he's saddled with a new nanny before he's to easy. There's something wrong with . MS. swan, but no one believes. Soon. They'll have to no choice.
February 1, 2025
Ik ben dol op de boeken van Horrorland van Uitgeverij Kluitman. Dus toen ze aankondigde dat ze een graphic novel in hun Horrorland serie gingen uitbrengen was ik direct razend nieuwsgierig. Ik ben dan ook dolblij dat ik van Uitgeverij Kluitman een recensie-exemplaar van dit nieuwe boek heb mogen ontvangen. Super bedankt!
De familie Russo gaat op vakantie, wanneer ze terugkomen, krijgen ze het schokkende nieuws dat hun geliefde oppas onverwachts is overleden. Dit nieuws komt met name bij Matt hard aan. Zijn vrienden proberen hem op te beuren met een avond van junkfood en horrorfilms, maar de plannen worden wild verstoord door de nieuwe oppas. De nieuwe oppas lijkt perfect, toch vertrouwt Matt het niet. Heeft hij te veel enge films gekeken? Of is de nieuwe oppas echt een monster?
Wat een onwijs toffe, verrassende en spannende graphic novel. Michael Regina heeft een hele levendige, fantasierijke en avontuurlijke schrijfstijl / verhaalstijl en weet zijn verhaal in prachtige, pakkende en indrukwekkende beelden uit te drukken. De graphic novel is vormgeven in een duistere en mysterieuze illustratiestijl en Michael Regina weet ook de emoties en gevoelens van de verschillende personages prachtig uit te drukken.
We volgen het gezin de familie Russo, waarin de jonge jongen Matt de hoofdrol speelt. Hun moeder werkt veel, maar Matt en zijn zusje worden liefdevol opgevangen en verzorgd door hun oppas. Matt en zijn vrienden zijn dol op horrorfilms, maar wanneer de oppas onverwachts komt te overlijden en Matt enorm rouwt, lijkt zijn fantasie op hol te slaan. Wat dit verhaal krachtig maakt, is dat naast het avontuurlijke, horror- en fantasierijke verhaal Michael Regina ook veel menselijke emoties, gevoelens en ervaringen heeft weten te stoppen. Daarbij heeft Michael Regina zich goed verplaatst in de jonge doelgroep en weet hij de leefwereld van Matt heel natuurlijk en realistisch te beschrijven. Het verhaal bevat mooie thema's waaronder de kracht van vriendschap, familie, liefde, samenwerken en rouw. Dit alles in een spannend, mysterieus en horrorachtig verhaal dat vlot en krachtig leest.
De horrornacht is een pakkende, spannende en erg goede graphic novel. De illustraties zijn prachtig, indrukwekkend, mysterieus en vertellen op heldere wijze een verhaal met gevoel en emotie. Wat dit verhaal erg goed maakt, is dat Michael Regina naast een fantasierijk en horrorachtig verhaal er ook mooie thema's als familie, rouw, vriendschap, samenwerken en liefde. Dit alles in een vlotte, pakkende en erg spannende graphic novel. Ik ben erg onder de indruk.
De familie Russo gaat op vakantie, wanneer ze terugkomen, krijgen ze het schokkende nieuws dat hun geliefde oppas onverwachts is overleden. Dit nieuws komt met name bij Matt hard aan. Zijn vrienden proberen hem op te beuren met een avond van junkfood en horrorfilms, maar de plannen worden wild verstoord door de nieuwe oppas. De nieuwe oppas lijkt perfect, toch vertrouwt Matt het niet. Heeft hij te veel enge films gekeken? Of is de nieuwe oppas echt een monster?
Wat een onwijs toffe, verrassende en spannende graphic novel. Michael Regina heeft een hele levendige, fantasierijke en avontuurlijke schrijfstijl / verhaalstijl en weet zijn verhaal in prachtige, pakkende en indrukwekkende beelden uit te drukken. De graphic novel is vormgeven in een duistere en mysterieuze illustratiestijl en Michael Regina weet ook de emoties en gevoelens van de verschillende personages prachtig uit te drukken.
We volgen het gezin de familie Russo, waarin de jonge jongen Matt de hoofdrol speelt. Hun moeder werkt veel, maar Matt en zijn zusje worden liefdevol opgevangen en verzorgd door hun oppas. Matt en zijn vrienden zijn dol op horrorfilms, maar wanneer de oppas onverwachts komt te overlijden en Matt enorm rouwt, lijkt zijn fantasie op hol te slaan. Wat dit verhaal krachtig maakt, is dat naast het avontuurlijke, horror- en fantasierijke verhaal Michael Regina ook veel menselijke emoties, gevoelens en ervaringen heeft weten te stoppen. Daarbij heeft Michael Regina zich goed verplaatst in de jonge doelgroep en weet hij de leefwereld van Matt heel natuurlijk en realistisch te beschrijven. Het verhaal bevat mooie thema's waaronder de kracht van vriendschap, familie, liefde, samenwerken en rouw. Dit alles in een spannend, mysterieus en horrorachtig verhaal dat vlot en krachtig leest.
De horrornacht is een pakkende, spannende en erg goede graphic novel. De illustraties zijn prachtig, indrukwekkend, mysterieus en vertellen op heldere wijze een verhaal met gevoel en emotie. Wat dit verhaal erg goed maakt, is dat Michael Regina naast een fantasierijk en horrorachtig verhaal er ook mooie thema's als familie, rouw, vriendschap, samenwerken en liefde. Dit alles in een vlotte, pakkende en erg spannende graphic novel. Ik ben erg onder de indruk.
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July 8, 2025Cross-posted from my blog where there's more information on where I got my copy and links and everything.
There’s a lot going for this one. I think it being quite spooky was a lot of fun, and I think kids who like scary things would really like this.
However, I have a lot of concerns about how the nanny, Ruby, is represented. She is the only Black character in the book, maybe the only POC character at all, and her entire character is that she takes care of white children. They obviously care about her a lot, and the note at the back of the book says she was based on a person in the author’s life, but it comes across as using some really problematic tropes.
I also found the faces a little generic. I really struggled telling the three boys apart at times. The horror aspects were drawn really well, though.
Other people will think I’m overreacting and be fine with all this, but I can’t get past that.
Representation: I think Mario and Teo might be intended to be Latino? But it’s hard to tell.
Content notes: Mild violence, a bit of blood, intense situations.
There’s a lot going for this one. I think it being quite spooky was a lot of fun, and I think kids who like scary things would really like this.
However, I have a lot of concerns about how the nanny, Ruby, is represented. She is the only Black character in the book, maybe the only POC character at all, and her entire character is that she takes care of white children. They obviously care about her a lot, and the note at the back of the book says she was based on a person in the author’s life, but it comes across as using some really problematic tropes.
I also found the faces a little generic. I really struggled telling the three boys apart at times. The horror aspects were drawn really well, though.
Other people will think I’m overreacting and be fine with all this, but I can’t get past that.
Representation: I think Mario and Teo might be intended to be Latino? But it’s hard to tell.
Content notes: Mild violence, a bit of blood, intense situations.
May 26, 2022
If you have readers that are easily scared then I would not recommend this story for them.
If you have readers that enjoy mystery, thrillers, and scary stories, then this is the story for them.
I too was a kid of the 90s and my friends and I in 7th grade would have our older siblings rent the scary movies for us and then we would watch them in our friend's basement. This story transported me back in time.
What I really liked about this story was that it wasn't about the scare factor. It was about dealing with grief when you lose someone you love. Unfortunately, some people we love can/could die suddenly and do/will leave a big hole in our life and our heart. But only when you come to terms with what has happened can you move on and tackle the scary things in your life.
If you have readers that enjoy mystery, thrillers, and scary stories, then this is the story for them.
I too was a kid of the 90s and my friends and I in 7th grade would have our older siblings rent the scary movies for us and then we would watch them in our friend's basement. This story transported me back in time.
What I really liked about this story was that it wasn't about the scare factor. It was about dealing with grief when you lose someone you love. Unfortunately, some people we love can/could die suddenly and do/will leave a big hole in our life and our heart. But only when you come to terms with what has happened can you move on and tackle the scary things in your life.
May 16, 2022
Atmospheric and creepy graphic novel perfect for middle grade readers as well as adults who grew up during the early-mid ‘90s (when this book takes place). Combines the aspects of epic sleepovers and battling a demonic witch in the backwoods. Very straight forward, clean appealing art and easy to digest. Also deals with grief and growing up a little bit. Really enjoyed this one! Looking forward to more Michael Regina graphic novels. It’s clear he understands how to effectively utilize this medium to set a proper mood and carry a story out from beginning to end. If I were 10, I would probably read this graphic novel 50 times.
September 6, 2025
Una historia de horror infantil de esas que nos recuerdan que aun los más grandes monstruos deberían cuidarse de un grupo de mocosos con la motivación adecuada.
A través de dibujos simples, pero efectivos, la historia nos lleva desde la melancolía de un niño, hasta la inminente confrontación con una fuerza siniestra, peligrosa y hambrienta de venganza... O quizás de justicia.
Puede pecar de ser excesivamente simple en su dimensión sobrenatural, además de poco sutil para abordar el tema del duelo, pero se siente honesta, con su justo grado de emoción y es una breve e interesante aventura con toques tenebrosos en toda regla.
A través de dibujos simples, pero efectivos, la historia nos lleva desde la melancolía de un niño, hasta la inminente confrontación con una fuerza siniestra, peligrosa y hambrienta de venganza... O quizás de justicia.
Puede pecar de ser excesivamente simple en su dimensión sobrenatural, además de poco sutil para abordar el tema del duelo, pero se siente honesta, con su justo grado de emoción y es una breve e interesante aventura con toques tenebrosos en toda regla.
October 17, 2022
I was a little bit disappointed by this, as it read younger than I was expecting. I feel like this is definitely on the lower side of middle grade, whereas I was hoping it would be more middle grade -YA.
For something that I came to for a spooky read, it really was more of a story about grief - which is fine, but it was a little heavy handed/overly sentimental/neatly wrapped up in the way it was handled. I think it could have been more subtle. Obviously I am not the target audience though, and I think younger readers would enjoy this.
For something that I came to for a spooky read, it really was more of a story about grief - which is fine, but it was a little heavy handed/overly sentimental/neatly wrapped up in the way it was handled. I think it could have been more subtle. Obviously I am not the target audience though, and I think younger readers would enjoy this.
May 17, 2022
Matt and Judy are devastated when their nanny, Ruby, dies unexpectedly. Matt is having a hard time with the emotions of grief and loss. Their single mom hires a new nanny, Ms. Swan, and Matt takes an instant disliking to her, convinced she is the witch from a local urban legend. Judy, Matt and his friends, end up fighting the demonic witch during the course of a sleepover. This graphic novel is creepy and atmospheric with an early 90s vibe. It is a good story which explores the themes of grief, friendship and empathy. There is even some understanding for the villain as the kids understand how the reasons why she became a monster. Perfect for middle graders who like scary stories.
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