Spring 2026

Bartholomew and the Morning Monsters

  • Interest Level: Preschool - Grade 3
  • Reading Level: Grade 2

SHORTLISTED FOR THE KLAUS FLUGGE PRIZE 2021!

Praise for Bartholomew and the Morning Monsters

‘’A playful nod to difficult mornings’’. — Kirkus

‘’A solid children’s debut for both creators’’ — Publishers Weekly

‘’Ruan van Vliet’s work is full of humour. Recommend exploring more from @cicadabooks too’’. — Matthew Tobin-Klaus Flugge Prize Judge 2021

‘’This story adds needed humor for kids new to the rush of a morning routine’’. Youth Services Book Review

‘’A fun riff on a child’s fear of monsters’’. — The AOI

‘’Full of superb artwork and with a playful storyline, this is yet another brilliant publication from Cicada Books’’. — Paper Ren

‘’A fun story to share with those who may find mornings a bit of a trial. Superb illustrations throughout!’’ — My Shelves Are Full

Mornings are never easy – especially when the monsters from last night’s dreams want to stay and play!

Bartholomew struggles to get himself ready as the monsters from last night’s dreams sabotage the most simple of morning routines. A vast purple monster sits on his chest, making it hard to get up. A slug monster slimes his clothes, so he can’t get dressed. Brushing teeth, eating breakfast, and even going to the toilet all present challenges as the monsters mess around at Bartholomew’s expense. Will Bartholomew’s dad ever manage to get him out the door?

Hilarious illustrations bring Bartholomew’s frustration and befuddlement alive in this deceptively simple story that anyone who is not a morning person is bound to relate to.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-908714-84-8
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$15.95
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Preschool - Grade 3
Reading Level Grade 2
Genre Picture Books
Category SEL: B Self-Management, SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2021
Publisher Cicada Books
Language English
Number of Pages 28
Publication Date 2026-01-01
Text Type Fiction
BISACS JUV019000, JUV052000, JUV015010
Dewey [E]
Dimensions 8.6667 x 10.6667

Author: Sophie Berger

Sophie Berger is a blogger and writer based in London.

Illustrator: Ruan van Vliet

Ruan van Vliet is a Dublin-based illustrator whose bright, smudgy artwork is distinctively expressive and absurdist. His self-initiated projects include clothing, paintings, and animation. His clients include KT, Vans, and Noble Rot, as well as countless independent music labels.