Stompie the Zombie
Two Lions
Ill. by Binny Talib
(Hardcover ISBN 978-1662527654)
Ages 3-7.
Stompie the Zombie is so excited that his relatives are coming for a family reunion. After all, it’s been 500 years since their last one!
But on the way to the GROSS-ery store to pick up some last-minute re-FLESH-ments, Stompie has a BUMPY spill on his cycle and BREAKS A BONE. Luckily, Itchy Witchy is nearby, and she flies him to Urgent Scare on her broom.
Will Stompie recover in time to meet and greet his relatives? Find out in this PUNNY story that’s sure to tickle your funny BONE.
Reviews
"Who’s up for a family re-BOO-nion?
Stompie the zombie hasn’t enjoyed a visit from his relatives in half a millennium (and “he’s been DYING to see them!”), so he’s organized a get-together in his graveyard home. He’s got lots to do, such as going to the “GROSS-ERY STORE” for “re-flesh-ments,” including “finger food,” “tomb-atoes,” and ribs. Rushing home, Stompie tumbles from his cycle—a casket on wheels—and breaks his shinbone in two. Fortunately, his pal Itchy Witchy whisks him to Urgent Scare on her broom. Dr. Fang diagnoses a “MARROW escape” and schedules surgery; Stompie must remain overnight. “Over my dead body!” he screams. A battle of wills ensues, but the doctor prevails. Stompie’s depressed; he was looking forward to the games and food. Will he have to cancel the reunion? No! While he’s in surgery, Itchy Witchy leads the guests to the hospital, where they decorate Stompie’s room. When he returns (in his “SQUEAL-CHAIR”), he’s thrilled by his relatives’ warm greetings. The reunion proceeds after all, with music and much more merriment besides. This comical, pun-filled winner about family togetherness and friendship will arouse chuckles, though some phrases may elude kids. All examples of witty wordplay appear in boldfaced capital letters throughout. The colorful digital illustrations burst with energy; green, wide-eyed Stompie and his spooky confederates are endearing, not scary.
A riotous, captivating charmer; fun at Halloween or anytime. (Picture book. 5-8)” — Kirkus Reviews
"PreS-Gr 2–Stompie is so excited for his family’s 500-year reunion. He’s so busy getting everything ready, including going to the “gross-ery store” for “finger food,” that he breaks his shinbone when he’s racing on his bike and goes over a bump. How will he get ready for the reunion now? Itchy Witchy to the rescue—not only does she take Stompie on her broom to “Urgent Scare,” she gets all of his family to come visit him after his operation. Who needs a fancy graveyard for a party when you have your family? This book is full of spooky puns: Stompie rides in a “squeal-chair” to his family’s “shin-dig” where the ghosts “boo-gie-woogie.” Little ones will find the wordplay funny and the art engaging. The illustrations are just as busy as the text: filled with lots of greens and purples, along with tons of Halloween touches, there’s plenty to look at. VERDICT A fun purchase well-suited to reading aloud.” — School Library Journal