These leveled texts geared toward reluctant readers introduce monsters and fairies, describing their physical appearance; their good and bad purposes; how they relate to humans; and their roles in mythology, literature, and popular entertainment. The accessible if slight texts are supported by color illustrations, movie stills, and sidebars supplementing the information covered on each double-page spread. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Gr 4-8-While there's nothing really wrong with these books, and the illustrations are clear and written instructions are competent, one has to question how many manga drawing books any library needs. Books by Haruno Nagatomo are perfect for teens and young adults and Christopher Hart's drawing books will suffice for younger artists. Most everything else out there is average, at best.-Steev Baker, Kewaskum Public Library, WI Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.