Title: The Beast and the Bethany
Author: Jack Meggitt- Phillips
Publisher: Egmont
Published: October 1, 2020
Pages: 256
Goodreads Synopsis
Ebenezer Tweezer is a youthful 511-year-old. He keeps a beast in the attic of his mansion, who he feeds all manner of things (including performing monkeys, his pet cat and the occasional cactus) and in return the beast vomits out presents for Ebenezer, as well as potions which keep him young and beautiful. But the beast grows ever greedier, and soon only a nice, juicy child will do. So when Ebenezer encounters orphan Bethany, it seems like (everlasting) life will go on as normal. But Bethany is not your average orphan . . .
My Review
This was such a quick read because I just couldn’t stop. I honestly wasn’t sure where this would go but I loved the journey.
At first, I wasn’t quite sure that I was going to like the characters because they are not the most likable. I think it’s what I loved the most about this book because it was so fun to see their character development by the end. I loved the fact that he chooses an Orphan. He goes into this place and leaves saddened, which really shines a light on reality. Orphans need love too. It really helps you understand the reason Bethany is the way she is.
There were so many great lessons for children in this book but it was done in such a funny way. It does get a little dark at times but it was done in such a silly way that it is perfectly acceptable for kids. I loved how Bethany just worms her way into Ebenezer’s life. Their back and forth was really funny. One is trying to out-whit the other pretty much the whole book. I mean, isn’t that what parenting is all about anyway? Are you trying to out-whit your child day today? My kid is only over 1 but he’s testing my brain daily. haha.
The illustrations were so good too. They came out a little off in the e-book version but what I could put together, I really enjoyed. I’m a sucker for beautiful illustrations and this one did not disappoint.
This is a book that I would recommend!! I really enjoyed my time with it. I will be buying a physical copy when it releases for me (a long time in US) and I’m looking forward to book two!!
About the Author
Jack Meggitt-Phillips is an author, scriptwriter, and playwright whose work has been performed at The Roundhouse and featured on Radio 4. He is scriptwriter and presenter of The History of Advertising podcast. In his mind, Jack is an enormously talented ballroom dancer, however his enthusiasm far surpasses his actual talent. Jack lives in north London where he spends most of his time drinking peculiar teas and reading P.G. Wodehouse novels.
About the Illustrator
Isabelle Follath is a freelance illustrator living in Zurich, Switzerland, with her lovely husband, her sweet daughter, and her fabulous dog. She has worked for advertising agencies, magazines, and publishers for over fifteen years, but Isabelle’s true passion lies in illustrating children’s books. When not drawing, Isabelle can be found making lots of coffee, trying new crafts, or going on a hunt for new art supplies and the perfect greenish-gold watercolor. Visit her online at IsabelleFollath.ch.
Books Are The New Black 
Great review, Leslie! I read this one last year and really enjoyed it too. The characters weren’t the most likeable but I enjoyed their journeys and found it to be a touching story in the end. It defo had its laugh out loud moments for me 😂
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Thanks!! This is the post I was telling you about yesterday!! It somehow reposted?!?! I was so confused. Hahaha. But I am doing the blog tour for the second book in a couple weeks & I really liked book 2!
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