A sweet Halloween bedtime story Seibold and Vivian style

One of my greatest weaknesses happens to be children's books. Even greater is my love for Halloween picture books and even greater still is my addiction to J. Otto Seibold. We can't get enough of his sweet and sassy, thoroughly detailed art. And so it was with great pleasure, while poring over Halloween kiddie books at my local bookstore searching for a new title to add to my collection, that I came across a Halloween book written and illustrated by Mr. Seibold. A brand spankin' new Seibold Halloween book..as if all my prayers had been answered. Trying to contain my whimpers of excitement I immediately snatched up the book clutching it tightly to my chest protecting it from anyone who might want MY copy. Using my quickest "indoor walking feet" I made my way over to a child size chair, did a few squats to loosen up my genetically bad knees before plopping down into the way-too-small for my butt, one cheek, kiddie chair and cracked open the hardcover book with a sigh of pure adoration.

Co-written by Sioban Vivian and J. Otto Seibold and illustrated by Mr. Seibold "Vunce Upon a Time" is a cutie-pie tale of not judging a book by it's cover, if you will, and the true meaning of Halloween that it's the night for replenishing that oh-so-important candy stash. The story is swell and lighthearted as to be expected. Similar to past books by Seibold his sense of humor seems to shine through in the silly dialogue between characters. Most notably in this book is, the main character, Dagmar's relationship with his well-meaning vampire parents. However, as is the case with most Seibold books, the true beauty lies in the awesome illustrations. You could read this book cover to cover, and jacket inside and out, over and over again and still would miss some teeny tiny gem just waiting to be discovered. My favorite part of the story is a scene of trick-or-treaters out on Halloween night. There are so many wonderful details highlighted in the most vibrant colors that I find myself gazing at the two paged mural wishing I could be transported right into the pages. What costume would I be wearing? A penguin probably. Only to be shaken from the trance by my kids begging me to turn the page. Where's Gumby when you need him? I read this book to my son's third grade class and I swear the short picture book took extra long to get through because the students pleaded with me to stay a few moments longer on each page so they could see everything and discuss the story. It was great. Pure Halloween magic as sweet as that Fun Size Twix bar you nicked from your kid's trick or treat bag but with way fewer calories.

Link: J. Otto Seibold