
Member Reviews

as a person who grew up with MH it was really interested to red it in a different media! I wasn't a fan of the story went buy it was still fun to read

I didn't enjoy reading this.
The stories in each volume were not cohesive, so it felt weird reading them. I didn't feel like the story was progressing; it felt like I was going nowhere.
The illustrations were good, and that's the only reason I finished it. I don't think this graphic novel shouldn't be printed, but it's not for me.

Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions written are completely honest and my own.
I did not expect the healthy relationship advice, but I'm here for it. I found the constant ghoulish puns a tad annoying, but they were rather reactive.
The only thing I disliked what that I could not understand what was happening to Ghoulia and Kjersti. I understood in the end, but I confused for a while

I don't know why new Monster High books are coming out all of a sudden, but I'm not complaining. This one returns to the OG ghouls, which means that Lagoona is untampered with. (She's really my only issue with the reboot.) The story ties in loosely with the new YA novels as well, but as long as you know the basics of the franchise, I wouldn't say there's any required reading before jumping into this. While I don't love the art all the time, it works and the story just gets better as the volume goes on.
I <i>can</i> see why the reboot went so all-in on increasing inclusivity, though - making Clawdeen and Toralei lesbians stands out as the only overt representation, although I've always thought Ghoulia could be read as neurodivergent. Still, if you want your original Monster High, this is a good place to get it, warts and all.

Not that familiar with monster high but I still found it enjoyable. The artstyle is great and the story is decent. The first part is more of a lighthearted fan-servicy segment showing us what the ghouls have been up to during the summer. Then we are introduced to the main story were the school is under new leadership and has enforced stricter rules in the aftermath of an attack by humans. Then there's also the mysterious disappearance of the headmistress and some students. However the story is mainly centered on the strained relationships between the ghouls and their personal struggles like the loss of a parent, break ups etc.

YESSS, my favorite ghouls are backkkk! This was super nostalgic to read!! My childhood is back. I loved the art style—it was just beautiful and captured the true feeling of Monster High.
The monster wordplay was fun, but at times it felt a bit overdone and didn’t quite land the way I think it was supposed to. That was probably intentional, though, since the target audience is younger. In that sense, it was cute and kind of funny.
There were some aspects I didn’t really like, as they seemed to divert from the original plot. However, I’m open to exploring new storylines. I love the way the story touches on deeper topics the girls face, how they resolve them without too much drama, and how those issues can affect their relationships.
I love seeing my ghouls back in their G1 phase. Would love to see more!
⋆˚࿔ Thank you to NetGalley, IDW Publishing, Jacque Aye, Hannah Templer, and Megan Brown for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Monster High: New Scaremester, Vol. 1, written by Jacque Aye, illustrated by Hannah Templer, and edited by Megan Brown, is a lively, empowering, and delightfully spooky graphic novel that reimagines the beloved Monster High universe for a new generation of readers. Packed with charm, heart, and a powerful message of self-acceptance, this volume is a strong and stylish start to a new era of ghoulish adventures.
The story follows a fresh group of monster teens as they begin their first semester at Monster High, balancing the pressures of school life with the complexities of embracing their unique monstrous identities. With humor and emotional resonance, the narrative explores themes of diversity, friendship, and inner strength. Each character brings a distinct voice and perspective, making the story inclusive and deeply relatable.
Jacque Aye’s writing is crisp, contemporary, and full of personality, offering a perfect entry point for new readers while honoring the essence of the franchise. Hannah Templer’s artwork bursts with energy and style — expressive characters, vibrant palettes, and layouts that perfectly capture the Monster High vibe. Megan Brown’s editorial guidance ensures a cohesive and engaging narrative flow, blending lighthearted moments with meaningful depth.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. Monster High: New Scaremester, Vol. 1 is a must-read for middle-grade audiences, longtime fans, and anyone who believes that being different is what makes us truly powerful.

Such a great comic, the art work was so pretty. If you like monster High definitely pick up this comic! Was such a nostalgic read.
Thank you NetGalley, IDW Publishing, authors for the arc in exchange for an honest review

I love the art style throughout this whole graphic novel. I also love the storyline. I could not get enough of it. Because it goes through the relationship, the drama that’s all happening in this new semester at Monster High. I also like that this adventure out from what I grew up watching From Monster High. I like the fact that I get to see new monsters and past monsters. I do like the fact that you get it from Frankie‘s perspective because she’s writing for her blog. I cannot wait for the next volume to come out because it does leave you on a cliffhanger. And it makes you want to know what’s actually happening in Monster High.

I requested and received this book from NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
I saw "Monster High" and jumped at the chance to read this ARC. I didn't even realize it was volume one, the cliff hanger was perfect (but I'm still mad about it. The extra art pages included did help though.) I love the design and aesthetic of Monster High I think this comic book captures it beautifully. I'm already so excited for volume two. "Monster High: New Scaremester" is a collection of previously published comics, but this was my first time reading any of them.
I'm so invested in the story, both the petty high school drama and the overarching mystery. The queer characters were an unexpected surprise that I loved. I was not expecting certain characters to be together but love what it's added to the story. I have so many theories and questions and I'm so excited for volume two!
Overall this was an entertaining read. It was great to step back into the world of "Monster High". Although I did feel like I was missing something. It has been a while since I watched the films though. I guess it's time for a rewatch While I wait for volume two.

I’m a big Monster High fan so I really loved this! It was perfect!! Absolutely LOVED! Can’t wait for the next one!!

Monster High: New Scaremester, Vol. 1 brings the beloved characters of Draculaura, Clawdeen Wolf, Cleo de Nile, and Frankie Stein back together in a fresh, exciting installment of the series. As the monsters gear up for a new "scaremester," things are far from normal. Draculaura is overwhelmed with new responsibilities, Clawdeen and Cleo are at odds, and Frankie is facing life-threatening danger. The squad's unity is put to the test, and it’s up to them to find a way to work through their problems and come together before things spiral out of control.
The story offers a fun mix of spooky drama and heartfelt moments, showcasing the challenges of friendships, growing up, and dealing with unexpected changes. The characters' unique personalities shine through, and the tensions between Clawdeen and Cleo add an intriguing layer of conflict to the plot. The dynamic between the characters is both relatable and entertaining, and fans of the franchise will appreciate the deeper exploration of their relationships.
Visually, New Scaremester is a treat. The art by Hannah Templer is vibrant and full of personality, capturing the fun, gothic essence of the Monster High world while also emphasizing the emotions and dynamics of the characters. The colorful designs and expressive faces add to the comic’s charm, making it an enjoyable read for both young and older fans.
While the volume does a great job of establishing the central conflict and emotional stakes, the pacing can feel a bit slow at times, especially in the middle of the story. Some of the subplots could be developed a bit further, and the overarching mystery about Frankie’s danger is introduced but not fully explored in this first volume. However, the team’s eventual resolution and growth are satisfying, leaving readers eager to see how the story will unfold.
Overall, Monster High: New Scaremester, Vol. 1 is an engaging and visually appealing comic that stays true to the spirit of the franchise while adding new layers of depth to the characters and their relationships. It’s a great pick for fans of the series looking for a fresh take on their favorite monsters, with enough intrigue and drama to keep readers coming back for more.

Was happy to see more love for Monster High, and while I found this interesting and definitely fresh story-wise, there were some quirks I couldn't get past. First, I was able to handle it when watching the show, but the written monster-pun speak was totally distracting. I also couldn't follow along with some of the pacing, maybe because I never watched the entirety of the show.
I loved the art though and greatly appreciated how once I got through the pun-speak, the story was decent.
Thank you IDW for the arc.

⋆ ˚。⋆୨୧˚ 4 stars ˚୨୧⋆。˚ ⋆
i had such a fun time reading this graphic novel! i'm going to be honest, i don't know or remember much of the monster high lore because i only watched a few episodes when i was younger, but it was still nostalgic to see these characters again! having said that, if you are new to monster high, this graphic novel can be a great place to start. also, the art style is so gorgeous, i loved it!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, IDW Publishing, and authors Jacque Aye, Hannah Templer, and Megan Brown for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗

Honestly, I found this story to be a little annoying. I get that it’s the whole schtick for it to reference monsters all the time, but the interchanged words for normal words was irritating and too often. Then again, I know that’s how they talk in the show too, but reading it made it feel so clunky. The story was intriguing, the whole mystery feel. The art is good. But it was hard to read when I kept having to translate monster words into real words

As a Monster High lover, this graphic novel felt like a total treat! New Scaremester, Vol. 1 brings all the spooky-sweet energy I adore — packed with friendship, fashion, drama, and that perfect mix of creepy and cute.
The art style is colorful and fun, the characters feel true to the originals, and honestly, it just made my monster heart so happy. If you grew up loving Monster High (or still do — no shame here!), this feels like stepping right back into that freaky-fab world we all know and love.

I had so much fun reading this! I love everything spooky and weird and Monster High always kills it 😉 the art work was really well done, kind of different in a good way
I love seeing the Monster High Ghouls doing their thing! I really enjoyed all the cute little relationship some characters had. I don’t know it was just a really fun time!

"Monster High New Scaremester Vol. 1" by Jacque Aye, Hannah Templer, and Megan Brown is the first novel in a new monster high series.
I would give "Monster High New Scaremester a 2 star review because, the art was okay but I didn't feel the story stayed true to the original monster highs when continuing from something not new you have to stay true to the originals. The faces didn't look like the original monster high characters.

Cue the Monster High theme song and prepare to be taken back to 2010 with this nostalgic new comic run featuring your favorite ghouls! Taking place after the event's of Tiffany Schmidt's recent novel, Once Bitten, Twice Dead, join Frankie, Clawdeen, Cleo, and Draculaura as they juggle new responsibilities, relationships, mysterious disappearances, and their friendship with each other. This new scaremester promises to be the most frightful one yet.
As one of the original 2010 Monster High alumni, I can't overstate how excited I am that Mattel has been reviving the fandom with new MH content. You can tell how much thought went into these comics and that Mattel is trying to reach and do right by the original Monster High fanbase. There were references not only to Once Bitten, Twice Dead but also to the movies from the 2010s which was a fun surprise that I wasn't expecting. I'm a sucker for connecting characters and events to each other across many movies and books--it scratches my brain just right to know that everything is linked together in some way. In addition, I love how hard Monster High has been leaning into LGBTQ+ representation. It makes me so happy and a little weepy as an adult to know that the fandom I chose when I was ten that told us to, "Be yourself. Be unique. Be a monster." hasn't broken away from telling little kids, through its characters, that everyone deserves to belong no matter their freaky flaws. Finally, the artwork in this volume was absolutely stunning (I couldn't stop thinking about how amazing all the ghoul's hair looked), and I appreciated how the publisher featured artwork from different artists in between comics. I can't wait to get my hands on volume two and I hope we can look forward to many, many more volumes to come.

This was fun! The art style is really nice, and I quite enjoyed the story. I thought it was a great adventure with the characters, and I'm excited to see where it goes next.
I do wish it was cleared that this was picking up after the recently published Draculaura book, Once Bitten, Twice Dead. Read that first! I also loved the inclusion of the Pride comics, though I wish it had been added at the end of the book, so it didn't interrupt the story between the prequel chapter and the rest of the story.