Cover Image: Gustavo, the Shy Ghost

Gustavo, the Shy Ghost

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Member Reviews

Gustavo, the shy Ghost, is just about the cutest little guy I've ever seen - I only wish he had a corporeal body to hug! Gustavo is a pretty normal ghost who loves two things the most in the world - playing his violin and Alma, the prettiest monster in town (who happens to be invisible). Gustavo has a big problem, though, because he's too shy to talk to any of the other monster kids. Until he has an idea to perform his violin and finally make some friends.

This book is a little cheesy and a little predictable but it's message is solid and it is a great Halloween-themed friendship story. The illustrations really improved this book for me, they have a Mexican flair that make them so unique and special.

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This is one of the most stunning and gorgeous books I've ever had the pleasure of reading! The story is delightful, and it was really, really touching. I loved the message it gave, of being true to yourself but also being brave and taking chances, that was really well done. The artwork takes the cake though, I have never been as blown away by a picture book as I was by Gustavo, the Shy Ghost.

Required reading if you share works with children, I think they'll like this one. If you're not a kid, pick this one up anyway, it's a cute and heartwarming read, filled with beautiful art.

Thank you Candlewick Press for the Netgalley copy!

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This sweet picture book is the story of Gustavo, a ghost who adores playing the violin and wants to be more outgoing with his peers, but it just too painfully shy. When he finally works up the courage to invite them to his concert, they don't show up! But luckily, they just got lost on the way to support him. All ends well for these monstrous pals and newfound friends. The simple premise is very sweet, but avoids unhealthy saccharine levels. The illustrations are gorgeously textured and colored, and carry the story. The story is set around Día de los Muertos, and details like papel picado add even more depth to both the visuals and narrative. A lovely, encouraging picture book with precious details and perfect any time of year.

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This was such a wonderful and feel good story book! Gustavo is indeed quite the shy ghost, and his shyness keeps him from joining in with others and making friends, but by being brave and stepping out of the shadows, Gustavo soon realizes that he has just as much to offer as anyone else.

Beautifully illustrated and whimsical, Gustavo, the Shy Ghost is a great pick for young readers everywhere.

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A wonderful story about a ghost that is too shy to make friends, but desperately wants to befriend his fellow monster children. This picture-book is cute, heartfelt and the Mexican art-style is a breath of fresh air into the world of picture-books! A detail I also found myself really loving was showing Gustavo's thoughts in a font very similar to the writing of a child. Will really recommend this!

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Absolutely excellent picture book with incredibly adorable illustrations. This is likely to be my favorite picture book of 2020. I can't imagine how it could possibly be better!

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Pretty much what it says on the tin. This is about a ghost who is too shy to make friends with other creatures of the night and supernatural.'

The pictures are cute, and the creatures are cute, and like little kids.

And like little kids, Gustavo invites them to a concert, and no one shows up, until they do.

I presume this is to show that some kids make mistakes but they are good in the end. It is an odd sort of book, but the pictures are amazingly fun, which is why it gets 4 stars.

Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.

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This book was adorable. The illustrations were what initially drew me in but the story was wonderful as well. Great message for kids.

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