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The Grumpy Wumpus
32 pages, Paperback
Published March 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
June 1, 2026
Julia Shaw’s charming children’s tale, The Grumpy Wumpus, feels like a blanket fresh from the dryer, sounds like a soft voice, and speaks with the wisdom of the aged. It is obvious upon seeing the cover that there is something truly special about this book, and it doesn’t take long to discover the treasures within these covers. The Grumpy Wumpus is the tale of a happy young girl who is suddenly over-taken by a disgruntled, angry “beast” her parents refer to as the Wumpus. Seemingly within moments, the girl goes from happy-go-lucky to an irascible child who simply cannot be reasoned with. Does any of this sound like a child you might know? Or the very child you were? Many of us will recognize her.
The attitude of the child’s parents is delightful. They don’t panic. They don’t plead. They certainly don’t yell or threaten. In fact, their wisdom and patience seem boundless as they watch their beautiful child turn into a raging “monster” who only responds in a negative manner. They seem to have taken a 21st-century approach to the Mary Poppins School of Child Rearing. That’s truly not meant as an insult, but a compliment of the highest order, as these parents seek creative ways to deal with the Grumpy Wumpus without giving in to her. Their words and actions as their daughter whirls further and further out of control are calming, affirming, and loving.
The lush illustrations are a balm to the senses. Wisely choosing calming shades of lavender, Julia Shaw sets the tone from the very start. The illustrations are softly edged, giving almost a fluffy sort of feel to the pages. The best part may just be the transformation of the child herself. As readers turn pages, she goes from being a little girl quietly playing while wearing a cute hat to a full-out violet colored Wumpus. Children can go back through the pages after reading the story and see how amazing the transformation is: taking over first her head, then her arms, torso, and legs. The cute little hat grows Wumpus horns from its soft little ears, and a scowling expression from its previously gentle face. The little girl seems to get furry and fluffy as the full-blown Grumpy Wumpus comes out. It’s so subtle, it’s easy to miss the entire transformation during the reading, but it’s quite impressive.
Ms. Shaw comments at the end of her story about how the illustrations were created, very openly indicating that while she drew the initial rough sketches, it took AI to turn them into what she saw in her mind. Some may be opposed to this, but I found it a fabulous use for something that is here to stay, whether we like it or not. In my opinion, this is a brilliant use of a new tool available, and I appreciate her openness about the process.
The Grumpy Wumpus is destined to become a child’s favorite story, especially for those in the 2- to 5-year-old range. With a wonderful lesson for both children and their parents, I hope Julia Shaw’s masterpiece will find its way into homes, schools, libraries, and day cares across the country. I heartily recommend this full 5-star read.
The attitude of the child’s parents is delightful. They don’t panic. They don’t plead. They certainly don’t yell or threaten. In fact, their wisdom and patience seem boundless as they watch their beautiful child turn into a raging “monster” who only responds in a negative manner. They seem to have taken a 21st-century approach to the Mary Poppins School of Child Rearing. That’s truly not meant as an insult, but a compliment of the highest order, as these parents seek creative ways to deal with the Grumpy Wumpus without giving in to her. Their words and actions as their daughter whirls further and further out of control are calming, affirming, and loving.
The lush illustrations are a balm to the senses. Wisely choosing calming shades of lavender, Julia Shaw sets the tone from the very start. The illustrations are softly edged, giving almost a fluffy sort of feel to the pages. The best part may just be the transformation of the child herself. As readers turn pages, she goes from being a little girl quietly playing while wearing a cute hat to a full-out violet colored Wumpus. Children can go back through the pages after reading the story and see how amazing the transformation is: taking over first her head, then her arms, torso, and legs. The cute little hat grows Wumpus horns from its soft little ears, and a scowling expression from its previously gentle face. The little girl seems to get furry and fluffy as the full-blown Grumpy Wumpus comes out. It’s so subtle, it’s easy to miss the entire transformation during the reading, but it’s quite impressive.
Ms. Shaw comments at the end of her story about how the illustrations were created, very openly indicating that while she drew the initial rough sketches, it took AI to turn them into what she saw in her mind. Some may be opposed to this, but I found it a fabulous use for something that is here to stay, whether we like it or not. In my opinion, this is a brilliant use of a new tool available, and I appreciate her openness about the process.
The Grumpy Wumpus is destined to become a child’s favorite story, especially for those in the 2- to 5-year-old range. With a wonderful lesson for both children and their parents, I hope Julia Shaw’s masterpiece will find its way into homes, schools, libraries, and day cares across the country. I heartily recommend this full 5-star read.
April 7, 2026
Looking for a great story for your little ones, grab this one. We are always looking for a children’s story that is relatable for the kids. Every parent/grandparent will recognize the Grumpy Wumpus as someone in their life. Brought a smile and a knowing shake of the head. Can’t go wrong with this one.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews