When a monster builds a tree house across the field from his own, a young boy finds himself embarking on a new friendship. Although they don't always understand one another's jokes, or play the same games, they do both like to do silly dances, make silly faces, and exchange notes. But when their musical session ends in an argument, and then a balloon fight, it looks like their friendship is at an end. Can they mend fences...?

This cute picture-book from David Soman, the illustrator of the Ladybug Girl books, and the author/illustrator of Three Bears In a Boat, offers a look at the joys and challenges of new friendship, and highlights the importance of flexibility and forgiveness, in getting through the inevitable quarrels that will arise. The artwork, done in watercolor, charcoal, and colored pencil, is colorful and appealing. All in all, The Monster Next Door is a sweet little book about friendship and forgiveness, and is recommended to those looking for children's stories with those themes. ( )