In What Monster?, the fifteenth instalment of the beloved Tom Gates series by Liz Pichon, readers are once again welcomed into Tom's vibrant world filled with humour, creativity, and relatable adventures. This time, however, a scary monster has seemingly invaded his life. Is it a figment of his imagination or one of his whimsical doodles come to life? The Plot As Tom navigates through the usual ups and downs of school life, the presence of the monster adds an exciting twist to his story. He grapples with the uncertainty of what is real and what is simply a product of his own imagination. Alongside his friends and family, Tom embarks on a delightful quest to uncover the truth behind this creature, leading to hilarious and heartwarming moments. Themes Imagination vs. Reality: The story explores how creativity shapes our perceptions and experiences. Friendship: Tom's relationships provide a solid foundation as he faces challenges. Bravery: The courage to confront one's fears is a central theme, encouraging readers to be bold. Pichon's engaging writing style, characterised by its playful illustrations and relatable narrative, makes this book an enjoyable read for children and parents alike. Fans of the series will appreciate Tom's growth and the continued charm of his adventures. What Monster? promises to be yet another delightful addition to the series, resonating with those who have enjoyed previous titles such as Tom Gates: Excellent Excuses and Tom Gates: Dogzilla. “A charming mix of humour and imagination, perfect for young readers.”
