Monster Manners

by Daniel Errico

 When it comes to monsters, there are some secrets that you probably haven’t heard. For example, did you know that they like to get their picture taken, eat books, and dance the cha-cha-cha? Once you get to know them better, you might find that monsters aren’t so scary after all. This rhyming tale is a whimsical guide to being friends with monsters, but we wouldn’t recommend acting like one!


In terms of monster etiquette,

A manners guide is hard to get.

I’ve walked the grandest monster halls

And rummaged through their monster malls.

Illustration of doors to stores in a monster mall. Slime Shop. Spikes N Things (50% off %22N things%22. Screams (loudest in town).jpg


I’ve learned, in time, their tricks and rules,

Those brooding blargs and slimy ghouls.

They don’t shake hands, they wiggle tails.

They’re far too scared of breaking nails.

Illustration of monster tails shaking hello

They cry a lot and blow their noses.

Cameras make them strike their poses.

Illustration of a monster with a bowtie getting its picture take.jpg

Their birthday balls are legendary.

Hairy gifts are customary.

Illustration of three gift boxes. Bald gift. Mohawk gift. And hairy gift..jpg

They don’t eat cake, it’s far too sweet.

They much prefer a book to eat.

Illustration of a book on a plate next to a stick-fork and a calculator on a smaller plate.jpg

If ever you should have the chance.

I must insist you watch one dance.

They stomp their feet and La-La-La.

And sometimes learn to Cha-Cha-Cha.

Illustration of a monster dancing ballet in a tutu.jpg

A monster’s home is hard to find.

They’re made of branches, mud, and vine.


They’re masterful in snowball fights.

 They’ll wait to hit you day or night.

 

Illustration of a monster hiding behind a snow fort, with a pile of snowballs. There is a sign that says %22Not a Monster Fort!%22.jpg

I promise, you will too, defend,

How monster’s make a mighty friend.

Illustration of a tiny monster with horns and smile.jpg


What you’ve heard might be contrary.

Trust me, monsters: they’re not scary.