From the Grave

Bullying is at the center of this read and our characters struggle with being who they are, or becoming what others want them to be. Frankie's "arch enemy" in the form of Malcolm ends up having to spend time with him in a place called Exxillium. It is frightful to both of them, but may help them to grow, and possibly change Malcolm's outlook in life.

"'Monsters only believe in monstering,' I muttered. I wasn't good at that. At all. And if I didn't get good at pretending, it looked like Exxillium was where I would end up. Could I pretend to monster up, enough to make them all believe it? I had to. I'd sort of done it so far. Well, not good enough to keep me out of this Exxillium excursion, but I could get better. Couldn't I?"

It is a story of struggle with every day life, with fitting in, and hurtful kids (monsters) who choose to not see their faults. It catches the attention of children because it resonates with many of them and everyday struggles they go through, but it also loses them with words they can't pronounce or understand, as well as phrases you might not want you're child picking up.

"I was the one panting now. 'Your dad, Malcolm. It was him on Exxillium.' 'No! You lying, misfit maggot! My dad died in Scare Patrol. My dad's a hero."

"Sometimes rumination prior to extermination is essential. Mind over monster!' Not my usual mode of operation but perhaps this trouble called for careful rumination."

There is great deal of life lessons and overcoming bad things when you feel you never will. It has a main character you come to adore because he is pure and means well, refuses to be a monster like everyone else. An adventure in finding out truths and working together. It might not be suited for younger children as stated above, but will fit perfectly on a more intermediate level. They are sure to enjoy From the Grave and everything is has to offer.

***I received this copy from Jolly Fish Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.***

Great Read! I read this first and then let my son read it and we both enjoyed it so much! Good little bedtime scary story.