PreS-Gr 1--In this concept book, several monsters go to a pet store to purchase a "best friend": "One dime buys a beetle./One dime buys a bat./Five pennies and one nickel/buy a rat." Realistic images of full-sized pennies, nickels, and dimes combine to show children the different ways to make 10 cents, allowing them to count the coins and become actively involved in the story. The bright and cheerful cartoon illustrations are filled with smiling monsters and grinning pets. Learning activities to familiarize children with these coins and their values appear at the end. Educationally sound and presented at an appropriate level, Monster Money will be popular in the classroom and at home.--Sharon R. Pearce, formerly at San Antonio Public Library, TX