I read most of Sleator's books as a teenager, and remember finding them creepy, fascinating, and smart. This one is no exception -- Sleator is excellent at establishing and maintaining a sense of understated horror and dread. This is a quick and compelling read. ( )

As silly and jokey as the cover might look, this is actually a pretty serious work of horror. Much as it's designed for young adult readers, the ecological overtones and possibilities of danger are so constant--and striking--that the book ends up being far more horrific and serious than first seems possible. Older readers might well find this work even more disturbing and memorable than will middle and high school readers who come across it, but one way or another, this is a dark and humorous work with believable characters and real-world commentary. Like it or hate it, it won't be easily forgotten. ( )

I always enjoy books by William Sleator. I really like the fact that his characters and settings are always realistic even when he writes in a science fiction genre. This is a tale of a brother and sister forced to spend time together when their parents move them out to the wilderness. Who would leave the perfect gifts in the middle of nowhere for two children that they didn’t even know were coming? Should Doug believe his crazy friend back home and not trust the Beasties they discover? Should he believe his sister’s instinct that they will not harm them even though there are so many people in the area with missing body parts? ( )

Oh my God. Do not read this book it is absolutely dreadful. The nine year old girl is a freak and she doesn't think about anyone other than herself. The beasties sound gruesome and disgusting and I got so upset while reading this book that i tossed it across my room. I just really, really hate the little girl in the book. Her stupidity honestly just makes me sick.

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I love this book for reluctant readers--- particularly boys. It has enough weirdness --(people about town who are missing body parts such as ears and noses) mystery and adventure to grab their attention. ( )