“The boy’s dilemma is classic and heroic:  He needs to determine his values and assert his strength.  What is, on the surface, a fine tale for picky eaters becomes a fable illustrating the kind of character strength that undergirds all important decisions in life.  This is one of the best picture storybooks to come along in a while.  It’s told in spirited verse with wonderful vocabulary and wordplay, and meter and rhyme (reminiscent of Dr. Seuss) that are a cut above the usual.”  --Tampa Tribune

“The rhymes flow, begging to be read aloud.  Children will clamor to hear this one again and again.”  --School Library Journal

“A fine book! Bravo!” —Ray Bradbury

“Told with brilliantly rhyming text and illustrated with outlandish humor, this story will drive home a point while making your child laugh out loud.” --Christian Parenting Today

“. . . full of action and fun.   Large characters with vivid expressions combine with the catchy story-rhyme to create an endearing tale for both reader and listener alike.  Highly recommended for all libraries.”  --Christian Library Journal    

“Told in rhyme, this tale’s description of the monster is a wonderful example of using adjectives to paint a picture.  Students will enjoy the marvelous illustrations.  This would be a good title to start a lesson on nutrition or on making choices and facing consequences.”  --Library Talk

“This is a hilarious book, not only for its clever, rhyming text, but also for the wild illustrations.  Kids will certainly be able to relate.”  --OC Family, Newport Beach, CA

“Arcimboldo meets Mad Magazine as a monster that looks like a cross between an octopus and a compost pile bargains with a young narrator willing to sacrifice his prized soccer ball, and even his new bike, rather than eat peas… there’s a Seussian (or Clement Clarke Moore) flavor to the rhymed text… the rollicking rhythms and madcap, over-the-top art give this… [book] plenty of comic energy.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“The author must have a hilarious imagination to write such a fun rhyming tale. Kids will want to read or have this book read to them over and over again.” ―It’s About Time, MaMaw

“Illustrated in muted, muddy earth tones, this fanciful, award-winning book features clever rhyming prose and emotion-laden imagery. It’s a great book for encouraging kids to try new foods.” ―Janet Boyer

“Full of rhyming, lyrical prose…this book is perfect for explaining that food that we dislike or hate isn’t nearly as bad as we think!” ―Jenn’s Bookshelves

AWARDS

Virginia Readers’ Choice (Primary Winner) ―Virginia State Reading Association

Young Hoosier Book Award (Picture Book) ―Association for Indiana Media Educators

Black-Eyed Susan Book Award (Nominee, Picture Book) ―Maryland Educational Media Organization

Pennsylvania Young Readers Choice Award (Nominee) ―Pennsylvania School Librarians Association

Show Me Readers Award (Nominee) ―Missouri Association of School Librarians