Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Gremlin Night

Rate this book
When a giant gremlin shows up on his front lawn one afternoon, a young boy is excited to keep it as a pet! Gremlin Night shares the magical adventures of the boy as he explores a make-believe world with his strange new friend. This gremlin has a secret, with clues for the reader to discover! Beautifully illustrated, this whimsical tale poignantly addresses poverty through the innocent eyes of a child. With tenderness, the gremlin's true identity is finally revealed. Gremlin Night is a story based on the author's childhood.

Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2023

About the author

Mark Dantzler

13 books2 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
4 (66%)
4 stars
1 (16%)
3 stars
1 (16%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,874 reviews447 followers
August 1, 2023
In the bustling sphere of children's literature comes a remarkable tale - Gremlin Night by Mark Dantzler. It unfolds the joyful yet complex lives of a young boy, the second smallest of five siblings, residing in a modest house brimming with love. Their seemingly everyday world takes a magical turn with the arrival of an intriguing new friend, a Gremlin. This leads to a series of fantastical escapades spearheaded by the boy and his father, proving that even in tight confines, the imagination knows no bounds.

In a whimsical fashion, Gremlin Night elegantly melds poignant storytelling with elements of fantasy. Maja Veselinovic's intricate and heartwarming illustrations serve as a visual compass, guiding readers into this enchanted realm where each page overflows with joyous nostalgia, subtly shadowed by the grim realities of social inequity.

The tale’s climax unravels the truths not just about the Gremlin but also about the family's situation - a stark representation of tireless parents striving to provide a joyful life for their children in the face of hardships. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the will to create beauty even amidst adversities.

Beyond its delightful narrative, Gremlin Night serves as a call to the hero within us. It underscores the societal blight of poverty that often languishes in the shadows, unheeded. As someone who has grappled with poverty, I found the tale to be a sweet yet stinging reminder of the juxtaposition of happiness and harsh realities. It sparks a renewed commitment to community-building and fostering hope for a brighter future. It affirms that even the smallest gestures of kindness can create ripples of change, perhaps even saving a life.

As a commentary on a contemporary issue wrapped in a delightful tale of magic and adventure, I award Gremlin Night a hearty recommendation. It’s an impactful yet gentle message of awareness that dares to pierce the veil of social complacency.

Recommended for ages 8 and up, this book is an ideal choice for group readings or events, fostering a deeper understanding of modern poverty. A stirring narrative that strikes a chord in the reader's heart, Gremlin Night gracefully intertwines hope and darkness, making it a true tour de force in the realm of children's literature.
Profile Image for Anja Høvik.
Author 6 books1 follower
September 14, 2023
Brilliant!

“Gremlin Night” is an unbelievably moving children’s book telling the tale of a young boy’s make-believe world throughout his childhood in poverty. The author brilliantly shows and gives clues about the secret of the new pet gremlin. This storytelling technique isn’t always seen in children’s books, but here, the child can join in telling the story and be challenged and engaged in ways grown-ups enjoy novels precisely and so utterly because of the subtext. This is nothing more than impressive to master in a book for children! It’s beautifully and tenderly illustrated with deep-felt and authentic illustrations! The ending is exceptionally moving! A triumph in the world of children’s books and books in general!
Profile Image for Valerie Chestnut.
39 reviews
September 22, 2023
Sweet Story

What a lovely family story. It’s a feel good read, featuring great illustrations, bright and colourful. It’s fun to read it from a child’s point of view. There also a lesson on living modestly and having a close family. I would totally recommend this book!
Author 3 books6 followers
August 26, 2023
Creative and imaginative

This is the childhood story of a boy living in poverty, but rich with dreams and imagination. Heartwarming and uplifting.
1 review
August 31, 2023
tasty story

The illustrations were great. The writing was also well done. I think from a kids point of view it might be emotionally more of an adult perspective.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.