📖 Overview
Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich is a collection of monster-themed poems and illustrations that reimagines classic horror characters in humorous everyday situations. The verses follow famous monsters like Dracula, the Phantom of the Opera, and the Creature from the Black Lagoon as they deal with common problems.
The book combines multiple artistic styles, from comic book panels to classical art parodies, matching each monster's unique story. The poems vary in length and style, incorporating different rhyme schemes and meters throughout the collection.
These monster tales explore universal experiences like social awkwardness, daily annoyances, and the desire to fit in. The combination of familiar horror icons with mundane situations creates an accessible entry point for readers to connect with typically frightening characters.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this poetry collection as silly, clever monster-themed verses that appeal to both children and adults. Parents report their kids request repeat readings, particularly of the recurring Phantom of the Opera segments.
Readers highlighted:
- Detailed, engaging illustrations that reward close examination
- Sophisticated wordplay and cultural references
- Mix of poetry styles and formats
- Humor that works on multiple levels
Common criticisms:
- Some poems are too complex for younger children
- A few readers found the Phantom segments repetitive
- References may go over kids' heads
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.17/5 (2,800+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.7/5 (150+ ratings)
Sample reader comment: "My 6-year-old laughs at the monster jokes while I catch all the clever cultural nods. The art style perfectly matches the quirky tone." - Goodreads reviewer
Several teachers noted using individual poems for classroom poetry units and Halloween activities.
📚 Similar books
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
The combination of mythical creatures with everyday food items creates the same type of unexpected humor found in Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich.
The Hoboken Chicken Emergency by Daniel Pinkwater A giant chicken terrorizes a town in this tale that mixes monsters and food with the same offbeat sensibility.
Frank Was a Monster Who Wanted to Dance by Keith Graves A monster story told in rhyme follows Frank the zombie's entertainment pursuits with body parts falling off throughout his performance.
Once Upon a Royal Superbaby by Kevin O'Malley This fractured fairy tale presents classic characters in modern scenarios with the same twisted storytelling approach.
Monster Goose by Judy Sierra Classic nursery rhymes receive a monster makeover through rewritten verses that incorporate creatures and spooky elements.
The Hoboken Chicken Emergency by Daniel Pinkwater A giant chicken terrorizes a town in this tale that mixes monsters and food with the same offbeat sensibility.
Frank Was a Monster Who Wanted to Dance by Keith Graves A monster story told in rhyme follows Frank the zombie's entertainment pursuits with body parts falling off throughout his performance.
Once Upon a Royal Superbaby by Kevin O'Malley This fractured fairy tale presents classic characters in modern scenarios with the same twisted storytelling approach.
Monster Goose by Judy Sierra Classic nursery rhymes receive a monster makeover through rewritten verses that incorporate creatures and spooky elements.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔬 Author Adam Rex not only wrote the text but also created all the artwork for the book, showcasing his talents as both an author and illustrator.
🎵 The book includes several parodies of well-known musical styles, including opera and rock and roll, making it a unique blend of horror and humor.
🧟♂️ While traditional monster stories often portray creatures as scary, this book reimagines classic monsters dealing with everyday problems, like the Phantom of the Opera getting songs stuck in his head.
📚 The book spawned a sequel called "Frankenstein Takes the Cake," which continues the humorous monster-themed poetry format.
🏆 The book won several awards and honors, including being named an ALA Notable Children's Book and receiving the Grand Canyon Reader Award.