Michael Regina

NOT ALL SCARES: Even though these kids must fend off a monster, there is still plenty of time for fun and laughs in this story from the raucous sleepover they have before things go south to the humorous banter they have throughout-like a serious discussion about the absurdity of monster weaknesses.

AN ORIGINAL AND COMPLEX MONSTER: The best horror has complex villains at the heart of its story-ones that aren't just evil for the sake of it. With Miss Swan, Michael has created a wholly new monster that readers will find terrifying but also multidimensional, and by the end of the book they may even sympathize with her.

ACCLAIMED INDIE ARTIST: Michael previously self-published an all-ages supernatural-adventure graphic novel series called Adamsville, which received rave reviews and became a featured comic on Webtoons. And he's proven to be an incredible self-promoter, having attended numerous fairs and conventions and visited dozens of schools across the country for that series, as well as building connections with many renowned graphic novelists such as Kazu Kibuishi and Mike Maihack!

A NUANCED LOOK AT GRIEF: Many of the details in this book are inspired by Michael's childhood, including the loss of his beloved nanny. And his portrayal of Matt's complicated emotions throughout the story-as he comes to terms with his grief-are so authentically done.

NOSTALGIA FACTOR: This story is set in the early '90s when the author was the same age as the main character. Similar to shows like Strangers Things, this backdrop adds another great layer to the story for older readers nostalgic for a simpler time filled with Discmans, video stores, and baggy clothes.