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Stuffed #1
Stuffed
Welcome, little one. You have been chosen to join us, in the dark and in the light, in love and in cloth, in safety and in danger. You join us.
Everyone thinks that Clark is too old to still play with stuffed animals. He's almost eleven! Bullies target him at school while his mother tries increasingly un-subtle ways to wean him off his toys and introduce more "normal" interests. But Clark can't shake the feeling that his stuffed friends are important, even necessary. Sometimes they move around in the night, and sometimes in the morning they look a little worse for wear, as if they've engaged in battle. And it turns out . . . he's right.
Clark's dad is under attack by a nefarious, shadowy monster called a King Derker, and only Clark's stuffies are able to fight him off. The problem is, no one believes Clark, and when his mom attempts to rid the house of stuffed animals to try to get him to grow up, she's actually putting Clark's dad and the entire household in mortal peril. Now it's up to Clark's grandma-made sock animal, Foon, to save the day. Luckily, being handmade by a loved one gives Foon extra battle points, but he's still a brand-new stuffy. Does he have what it takes to rid Clark's house of all its monsters?
Told through both Clark's and Foon's points of view, Stuffed confirms every kid's dream: that stuffed animals do have a life and a purpose, and that sometimes the most unconventional friendships are also the most valuable.
Everyone thinks that Clark is too old to still play with stuffed animals. He's almost eleven! Bullies target him at school while his mother tries increasingly un-subtle ways to wean him off his toys and introduce more "normal" interests. But Clark can't shake the feeling that his stuffed friends are important, even necessary. Sometimes they move around in the night, and sometimes in the morning they look a little worse for wear, as if they've engaged in battle. And it turns out . . . he's right.
Clark's dad is under attack by a nefarious, shadowy monster called a King Derker, and only Clark's stuffies are able to fight him off. The problem is, no one believes Clark, and when his mom attempts to rid the house of stuffed animals to try to get him to grow up, she's actually putting Clark's dad and the entire household in mortal peril. Now it's up to Clark's grandma-made sock animal, Foon, to save the day. Luckily, being handmade by a loved one gives Foon extra battle points, but he's still a brand-new stuffy. Does he have what it takes to rid Clark's house of all its monsters?
Told through both Clark's and Foon's points of view, Stuffed confirms every kid's dream: that stuffed animals do have a life and a purpose, and that sometimes the most unconventional friendships are also the most valuable.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published November 5, 2019
13 people are currently reading
648 people want to read
About the author
Liz Braswell
51 books6,370 followersAfter the sort of introverted childhood you would expect from a writer, Liz earned a degree in Egyptology at Brown University and then promptly spent the next ten years producing video games. Finally she caved into fate and wrote Snow and Rx under the name Tracy Lynn, followed by The Nine Lives of Chloe King series under her real name, because by then the assassins hunting her were all dead. She also has short stories in Geektastic and Who Done It and a new series of reimagined fairy tales coming out, starting with A Whole New World—a retelling of Aladdin.
She lives in Brooklyn with a husband, two children, a cat, a part-time dog, three fish and five coffee trees she insists will start producing beans any day. You can email her at me@lizbraswell.com.
She lives in Brooklyn with a husband, two children, a cat, a part-time dog, three fish and five coffee trees she insists will start producing beans any day. You can email her at me@lizbraswell.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 6, 2020
Stuffed is an adorable story that supposes that there really are monsters in the shows of bedrooms at night, and stuffed animals are stalwart defenders against them. Now, I may or may not still have some stuffies myself (shut up, that's why), and I also have children with revered stuffed animals and fears at night. The specifics set up in this book (e.g. specific "battle strength" points for different characteristics) likely won't be familiar, but the gist of specific, ritualized beliefs to combat the darkness is there. As a kid, I thought that as long as I looked like I was asleep then the monsters couldn't get me, so I laid there as still as I could with my eyes closed. I often had the sensation while lying in bed of descending while rotating, as if on a huge platform elevator going down into the depths of hell. After a looooong time I determined that I produced this sensation when I rubbed my big toes against each other or one toe against a leg. Weird, eh?
Anyway, this book gets Cthulhu cred for its stealth "Lovecraft crew" references. The main character's new friend is named "D.A." for "Derleth August" (August Derleth). At summer camp, we meet a slightly older girl highly in-the-know about all of this monster and stuffy defense stuff, who if I recall correctly was named after Gertrude Barrows Bennett, "the woman who invented dark fantasy". And it took me a while to realize that the main charcter, Clark, whose mother was "Mrs. Smith", must have had the middle name Ashton, a guess confirmed at the end of the book when his grandmother called him "Clark A. Smith" (Clark Ashton Smith).
The story begins as Clark's mother, Mrs. Smith, whose parenting skills leave something to be desired, wants to end Clark's reliance on his large collection of stuffed animals for night-time security. She does the unimaginable and gets rid of them all after she ships him off to camp for a week. Of course this all happens at the same time that a monster from Mr. Smith's childhood has re-emerged and is draining him dry of his life-force. Fortunately, Clark's grandmother, who gets it, sends him the hand-made creature from the book cover, and this noble fluffy beast sets out to defend the family from the hidden threat.
It's cute, suitable for kids who won't be too scared by the shadow monsters, some of whom could be genuinely frightening, but still young enough to thrill at the stuffed animal's adventure.
Anyway, this book gets Cthulhu cred for its stealth "Lovecraft crew" references. The main character's new friend is named "D.A." for "Derleth August" (August Derleth). At summer camp, we meet a slightly older girl highly in-the-know about all of this monster and stuffy defense stuff, who if I recall correctly was named after Gertrude Barrows Bennett, "the woman who invented dark fantasy". And it took me a while to realize that the main charcter, Clark, whose mother was "Mrs. Smith", must have had the middle name Ashton, a guess confirmed at the end of the book when his grandmother called him "Clark A. Smith" (Clark Ashton Smith).
The story begins as Clark's mother, Mrs. Smith, whose parenting skills leave something to be desired, wants to end Clark's reliance on his large collection of stuffed animals for night-time security. She does the unimaginable and gets rid of them all after she ships him off to camp for a week. Of course this all happens at the same time that a monster from Mr. Smith's childhood has re-emerged and is draining him dry of his life-force. Fortunately, Clark's grandmother, who gets it, sends him the hand-made creature from the book cover, and this noble fluffy beast sets out to defend the family from the hidden threat.
It's cute, suitable for kids who won't be too scared by the shadow monsters, some of whom could be genuinely frightening, but still young enough to thrill at the stuffed animal's adventure.
January 9, 2020
Lots of fun with a surprising combination of creepy and action-adventure. I'd recommend it for reluctant readers or grades 3+ boys. Young video game lovers will enjoy, too.
September 3, 2020
It's not that much of a surprise that this book spoke to me when I saw it. Confront me with a cute stuffed animal and if it's reasonably priced it's most likely coming home with me. I have an entire collection next to my bed and an even bigger one in a box in the basement. (Yes, a decent plastic see through box, not a dump bag!) A book where the stuffed animals are the heroes, a book written for those who still need their plushies, that is a book for me.
And this book is so incredibly cute from start to finish! I think we could discuss endless if telling kids that monsters do exist and that every night their stuffies battle them and that only stuffies can protect people from being possessed is a good message to send to kids, however, I do love how this book is not so much about battling the darkness and monsters, but more about the power of love. The stuffies fight because they love their boy and his family. The boy takes care of his plushies and names them because he knows how important they are. His mother wants him to move on from his stuffies, because she is afraid he will stand out and be picked on. And there are many more tender moments where people are loving each other.
I also really liked the rating system used for the power of the monsters and the plushies. 2 extra points if the stuffies are hand made. 2 more extra points if they are made and given out of love. The book also included some really simple and useful guide to make your own stuffies. Small ones, to gift to friends, because if you tell them you made it yourself they're forced to carry them with them, and bigger ones. I'm not that good with my hands, but even I was tempted to try it out.
And then there is Foon! Foon is the stuffie who has point of view chapters in this book. Together with him we learn about the world that comes alive at night, when we're asleep. We hear about all the possible allies in a house and how to recognize darkness. And we follow him on his final quest to rid the house of the darkness that's haunting it. It's quite impossible not to fall a little bit in love with Foon. I think I'm gonna ask mom to make me a Foon too. Hand Made. And Made with Love. 4 extra points. That should keep my bedroom nightmare free, right?
And this book is so incredibly cute from start to finish! I think we could discuss endless if telling kids that monsters do exist and that every night their stuffies battle them and that only stuffies can protect people from being possessed is a good message to send to kids, however, I do love how this book is not so much about battling the darkness and monsters, but more about the power of love. The stuffies fight because they love their boy and his family. The boy takes care of his plushies and names them because he knows how important they are. His mother wants him to move on from his stuffies, because she is afraid he will stand out and be picked on. And there are many more tender moments where people are loving each other.
I also really liked the rating system used for the power of the monsters and the plushies. 2 extra points if the stuffies are hand made. 2 more extra points if they are made and given out of love. The book also included some really simple and useful guide to make your own stuffies. Small ones, to gift to friends, because if you tell them you made it yourself they're forced to carry them with them, and bigger ones. I'm not that good with my hands, but even I was tempted to try it out.
And then there is Foon! Foon is the stuffie who has point of view chapters in this book. Together with him we learn about the world that comes alive at night, when we're asleep. We hear about all the possible allies in a house and how to recognize darkness. And we follow him on his final quest to rid the house of the darkness that's haunting it. It's quite impossible not to fall a little bit in love with Foon. I think I'm gonna ask mom to make me a Foon too. Hand Made. And Made with Love. 4 extra points. That should keep my bedroom nightmare free, right?
August 6, 2024
Such a cute book! I loved it and enjoyed reading it. I loved the little instructions for sewing your stuffie throughout the book as well. I’m excited to read the next one.
January 28, 2020
Not sure how I came to find this title, but I'm glad I did!
When you are growing up, you believe that there are monsters in the world (and there are) and thus you have things to comfort and protect you, usually stuffed animals. These "stuffies" are the main line of defense against the things that go bump in the night. But are they really needed? This book shows why stuffies might be the most important thing in your house.
Clark, almost 11 years old, is a fanatic about his stuffies. Lining the edges of his bed every night before he goes to sleep, he knows he is protected. But when smaller stuffies begin to vanish at night, and his Dad gets sick, showing tiny puncture wounds on his neck, Clark begins to think that his house might have a greater presence of evil than most. BUT... there is one snag. His mother thinks he is too old for stuffed animals and is willing to do a lot to take care of "the problem", even to the point of sending him away to camp.
Taking Foon, a new handmade stuffie from his grandma, with him to camp, Clark learns that what he always suspected was real, is even more dangerous than he thought. Foon, during the night, learns from the other stuffies, snuck into summer camp, how to defend his Boy from the horrible Monsters. Can Foon save Clark's house from the horrible, monstrous King Derker, that is slowly taking over Clark's dad?
Stuffed is a book that wants to prove that anyone who still sleeps with stuffies has the right idea. Fun, lighthearted, but with an intensity and seriousness to it that will make you question... and maybe even put a few stuffies on your bed.
Strong recommend. Appropriate for all ages.
When you are growing up, you believe that there are monsters in the world (and there are) and thus you have things to comfort and protect you, usually stuffed animals. These "stuffies" are the main line of defense against the things that go bump in the night. But are they really needed? This book shows why stuffies might be the most important thing in your house.
Clark, almost 11 years old, is a fanatic about his stuffies. Lining the edges of his bed every night before he goes to sleep, he knows he is protected. But when smaller stuffies begin to vanish at night, and his Dad gets sick, showing tiny puncture wounds on his neck, Clark begins to think that his house might have a greater presence of evil than most. BUT... there is one snag. His mother thinks he is too old for stuffed animals and is willing to do a lot to take care of "the problem", even to the point of sending him away to camp.
Taking Foon, a new handmade stuffie from his grandma, with him to camp, Clark learns that what he always suspected was real, is even more dangerous than he thought. Foon, during the night, learns from the other stuffies, snuck into summer camp, how to defend his Boy from the horrible Monsters. Can Foon save Clark's house from the horrible, monstrous King Derker, that is slowly taking over Clark's dad?
Stuffed is a book that wants to prove that anyone who still sleeps with stuffies has the right idea. Fun, lighthearted, but with an intensity and seriousness to it that will make you question... and maybe even put a few stuffies on your bed.
Strong recommend. Appropriate for all ages.
August 14, 2022
Okay, this is an unexpected and awesome book. I ran into this at work and I had to read it-- stuffed animals defend us from Monsters in the Dark? It was a great premise. And I freely admit I, a 28-year-old man, sleep with a Stuffy (a bison named Mulder). The premise is executed well, splitting the story between the Boy main character, Clark A. Smith, and a handmade Stuffy named Foon.
What strikes me most about this is that it is cosmic horror for children. I did NOT expect that. The first hint was that most of the characters are named for Weird Fiction authors: Clark for Clark Ashton Smith, Derleth August obviously for August Derleth (who coined the term "Cthulu Mythos"), Catherine-Lucille for Catherine Lucille Moore, Grandma Machen for Arthur Machen (author of The Great God Pan), and a psychologist named Randolph Carter for H. P. Lovecraft's character. I spent a lot of time shouting these names when it hit me.
And then the horror starts-- the Monsters, when they're finally revealed in Foon's chapters, are seriously eldritch beings that seemingly defy physics. They're not only creepy and physically damage the Stuffies, they bring a miasma that threatens Clark's family, especially his father. This is GENIUS. It's not just a child's fear of monsters or the dark, it's a force that is nearly incomprehensible and can only be defeated by the Stuffies. I'm impressed with the level of horror it goes into, but maintaining hope and a happy ending without being resolved too easily. I look forward to the next book, especially to find out more about Clark's dad, what eldritch horrors await, and how the Stuffies will defend us by the Grace of the Velveteen.
What strikes me most about this is that it is cosmic horror for children. I did NOT expect that. The first hint was that most of the characters are named for Weird Fiction authors: Clark for Clark Ashton Smith, Derleth August obviously for August Derleth (who coined the term "Cthulu Mythos"), Catherine-Lucille for Catherine Lucille Moore, Grandma Machen for Arthur Machen (author of The Great God Pan), and a psychologist named Randolph Carter for H. P. Lovecraft's character. I spent a lot of time shouting these names when it hit me.
And then the horror starts-- the Monsters, when they're finally revealed in Foon's chapters, are seriously eldritch beings that seemingly defy physics. They're not only creepy and physically damage the Stuffies, they bring a miasma that threatens Clark's family, especially his father. This is GENIUS. It's not just a child's fear of monsters or the dark, it's a force that is nearly incomprehensible and can only be defeated by the Stuffies. I'm impressed with the level of horror it goes into, but maintaining hope and a happy ending without being resolved too easily. I look forward to the next book, especially to find out more about Clark's dad, what eldritch horrors await, and how the Stuffies will defend us by the Grace of the Velveteen.
August 25, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
I totally and completely loved Stuffed!! When I read middle grade, I do so with a middle grade reader in mind. This will be snatched up in my elementary school. Once one student gets ahold of this and reads it, they will tell their friends and I will end up getting a large holds list for this book. Stuffed is unique and refreshing, a tiny bit scary (but not much) and reluctant readers will love this too. A super fun fantasy that makes me want to make my own Stuffy. (Yes I'm an adult, don't judge me). I cannot wait to get a copy of this for my library.
I totally and completely loved Stuffed!! When I read middle grade, I do so with a middle grade reader in mind. This will be snatched up in my elementary school. Once one student gets ahold of this and reads it, they will tell their friends and I will end up getting a large holds list for this book. Stuffed is unique and refreshing, a tiny bit scary (but not much) and reluctant readers will love this too. A super fun fantasy that makes me want to make my own Stuffy. (Yes I'm an adult, don't judge me). I cannot wait to get a copy of this for my library.
January 31, 2020
I LOVED this book. I wish I had wrote it because it was full of truth. I highly recommend this book to young and old. I am thinking about making faux book subscriptions at my library with this book. I'll include felt and stuff to make their own stuffies. Yes, I am a grown woman with a significant other and I still sleep with my teddy bear and I don't keep my feet over the side of the bed.
February 23, 2021
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“Stuffed” is an adorable, innovative, and extremely creative book, and I loved reading it!
I loved the story’s theme, where the author beautifully portrays that you should never give up your dreams and beliefs, no matter how dire the circumstances are. The author wonderfully paces the story, and there is never a dull moment. The book also has creative tips about sewing your stuffed animal and cute illustrations of Foon in between. The author fills the story with love, friendship, adventure (at a camp), cute stuffed animals, and an epic battle in the end!
Clark is terrific in the lead. He is scared to leave his bubble in the beginning but still has fun at the camp. He never changes as a person but learns to be himself and adapt to others. I loved the scenes where he goes on his first quest to find the phone and when Foon goes on his mission towards the end.
The author also wonderfully writes the stuffed animals. I don’t think I have ever become emotionally invested in a fictional stuffed animal until I read of Foon. Foon is adorable, brave, and has all the characteristics of being a warrior. Moreover, it’s hard to be angry at some of the stringent characters, like Clark’s mom, because you find out the reason for her behavior. On a side note, I also loved Grandma and the bond she had with Clark.
I cannot wait to read the 2nd book to see how the series continues! I hope D.A. and Catherine-Lucille make another appearance as I would love to read about them. Overall, “Stuffed” is a terrific book that I feel a reader of any age would thoroughly enjoy.
October 28, 2021
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/bb/e7/...
Well, I've been on Goodreads for years and I guess I have never used an image in one of my reviews but as soon as I read the premise of this book I thought of the above image, which was made by the artist Alex Panagopoulos, the work is titled Sweet Halloween Dreams and can be found on Deviant Art.
As someone who thoroughly believes...I mean believed...in the power of Stuffies and the existence of Monsters when I was a child, I really enjoyed this book. My method was a little different than the boy character's, I had to actually have my arms around all of my most important ones, which was quite an ordeal since there were 5 of them and one was about 2/3rds my size but I definitely related to this book.
The story was engaging and I enjoyed both the boy's parts and the Stuffy's parts. I also like that the boy finds some like-minded kids and that they're, eventually, allowed to just be themselves rather than being forced to "grow up."
I feel the same about this book as many others featuring mean monsters and methods/those who defend against them. On the one hand, if children do not already have a fear of monsters, I'm nervous books like these will inspire that fear but, if they already believe monsters are lurking, I think books like this will help them, perhaps, face and work through those fears. Especially because this book includes instructions on how to make your own Stuffies and offers advice on how to make them into excellent protectors. Then there are those kids (like me, full confession, I'm old) who may enjoy this book because they have, at least almost, overcome their fear of monsters but think it's fun to fear about something they are past.
Whether they are past those fears or in the midst of them, this book may make them feel more justified in their feelings. If they are still working through it, I don't think this will make it worse, and, like eventually happens in the book, probably the best thing would be to let kids keep their Stuffies until all their monsters are vanquished.
*Note: as someone who was a child who very literally lost hours of sleep over fears of monsters and an avid lover of stuffed animals, I feel I have a fairly expert opinion in this area. :)
Well, I've been on Goodreads for years and I guess I have never used an image in one of my reviews but as soon as I read the premise of this book I thought of the above image, which was made by the artist Alex Panagopoulos, the work is titled Sweet Halloween Dreams and can be found on Deviant Art.
As someone who thoroughly believes...I mean believed...in the power of Stuffies and the existence of Monsters when I was a child, I really enjoyed this book. My method was a little different than the boy character's, I had to actually have my arms around all of my most important ones, which was quite an ordeal since there were 5 of them and one was about 2/3rds my size but I definitely related to this book.
The story was engaging and I enjoyed both the boy's parts and the Stuffy's parts. I also like that the boy finds some like-minded kids and that they're, eventually, allowed to just be themselves rather than being forced to "grow up."
I feel the same about this book as many others featuring mean monsters and methods/those who defend against them. On the one hand, if children do not already have a fear of monsters, I'm nervous books like these will inspire that fear but, if they already believe monsters are lurking, I think books like this will help them, perhaps, face and work through those fears. Especially because this book includes instructions on how to make your own Stuffies and offers advice on how to make them into excellent protectors. Then there are those kids (like me, full confession, I'm old) who may enjoy this book because they have, at least almost, overcome their fear of monsters but think it's fun to fear about something they are past.
Whether they are past those fears or in the midst of them, this book may make them feel more justified in their feelings. If they are still working through it, I don't think this will make it worse, and, like eventually happens in the book, probably the best thing would be to let kids keep their Stuffies until all their monsters are vanquished.
*Note: as someone who was a child who very literally lost hours of sleep over fears of monsters and an avid lover of stuffed animals, I feel I have a fairly expert opinion in this area. :)
November 14, 2022
This book is an odd mix of completely adorable and totally creepy. The basic plot is brilliant (stuffies with various point ratings protecting kids) and I was excited to read the book, but there are some weird parts of the book that give it a more sinister twist than I expected. I would recommend this for 4th or 5th graders with some tolerance for weird.
October 26, 2019
This is going to be one popular book! Just so fun to read, can’t wait to book talk it! Perfect amount of creepy and love.
November 11, 2019
Do you believe that there are monsters under your bed? Hiding in the closet? In the darkest corners of your room? Clark definitely does!! This is why he arranges his stuffed animals all around him, facing out toward the room, to protect him from the evil while he sleeps. Clark knows that there is something dark and evil living in his house. His dad is getting sicker and weaker every day. Small pinprick holes are appearing all over his body, blood crusted over them. No one will believe Clark when he says he needs his stuffed animals to protect them. He thinks his sister Anna, even though she is seventeen, believes a little because she has her frightening vampire dolls to protect her. Every time Clark tries to hid a stuffed animal in his parents room to protect them, his mom picks it up and throws it back in his room. The other problem is that his mom thinks that he is too old to play with stuffed animals. After all, he is eleven and needs to move on to older things. So when his mom confiscates all of his stuffed animals while he is away at camp, it is up to his newest stuffed animal, Foon, to save the day. Foon was made by his grandmother and given to him just before he left for camp. Now, all stuffed animals have points for how fierce they are. Foon has several points - for his sharp teeth, his horns, and his spear that he carries. He even gets bonus points for being made by a loved one. But will this be enough to defeat the dark King Derker that is controlling the house? Can Foon make it from Clarks room, down the hall, down the stairs, through the kitchen, and to the basement without being shredded? Will Foon be able to rescue all the other stuffies or will he have to face King Derker alone? For anyone who has ever believed in the monsters that come out at night or has had a love for a stuffed toy... this is the book for you!!! Do not miss this story of fierce loyalty, fearless courage, and the undying love of family and friends!
Stuffed Is a story that I have been needing for a while now. It makes you go back to your childhood and remember the love you had for your stuffed toys! I wanted to cheer for Clark and his braveness and boo his mom when she continually tried to get rid of his toys. I loved the way Liz Braswell gave human qualities to the stuffed toys and my heart broke when they suffered harm but then she stitched my heart back together again! This story has so much humor, love, devotion, courage, and bravery in it. She also teaches you how to create your own stuffy. I loved everything about this story and I can not wait to book talk it to my kids at school. I know it will fly off the shelf!!!!
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Stuffed Is a story that I have been needing for a while now. It makes you go back to your childhood and remember the love you had for your stuffed toys! I wanted to cheer for Clark and his braveness and boo his mom when she continually tried to get rid of his toys. I loved the way Liz Braswell gave human qualities to the stuffed toys and my heart broke when they suffered harm but then she stitched my heart back together again! This story has so much humor, love, devotion, courage, and bravery in it. She also teaches you how to create your own stuffy. I loved everything about this story and I can not wait to book talk it to my kids at school. I know it will fly off the shelf!!!!
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December 28, 2019
*I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley* (but wasn't able to read it before my download expired, so I'm actually reviewing the digital version of the final book)
I really enjoyed this book, but it has some seriously dark and creepy scenes. I can see the hesitation of other reviewers in how the dad's depression is addressed, but although Anna (sister of the main character, Clark) calls it depression, within the story I really felt like it was made out to be caused by the monster in the house. Anyway, I think the take on monsters under the bed/in the closet/etc. is a little different, and the rankings and powers attributed to both monsters and stuffies will appeal to kids who are engaged in games like Pokemon.
I really enjoyed this book, but it has some seriously dark and creepy scenes. I can see the hesitation of other reviewers in how the dad's depression is addressed, but although Anna (sister of the main character, Clark) calls it depression, within the story I really felt like it was made out to be caused by the monster in the house. Anyway, I think the take on monsters under the bed/in the closet/etc. is a little different, and the rankings and powers attributed to both monsters and stuffies will appeal to kids who are engaged in games like Pokemon.
August 16, 2019
This book was received as an ARC from Disney Book Group - Disney-Hyperion in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
I was not sure what to make of this book when I first hears about it because it is Disney-Hyperion and on the cover was a picture of a really cute stuffed monster. But, when I read the book, I knew I was in for a big shocker. I am a huge fan of stories that bring to life toys such as all the Toy Story movies but I loved how this one focused solely on stuffed animals. Clark has a passion and his passion is way too young for him causing chaos in his life including the capturing and endangerment of his father. It's up to his stuffed animals to save him including his new sock toy that his grandma made for him so it has that special family touch that is needed to save Clark's father. This book is a great example of how special simple toys such as stuffed animals can be in someone's life because of the memories they hold and the places in our hearts they hold too no matter what your age is.
We will consider adding this title to our JFiction collection in our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
I was not sure what to make of this book when I first hears about it because it is Disney-Hyperion and on the cover was a picture of a really cute stuffed monster. But, when I read the book, I knew I was in for a big shocker. I am a huge fan of stories that bring to life toys such as all the Toy Story movies but I loved how this one focused solely on stuffed animals. Clark has a passion and his passion is way too young for him causing chaos in his life including the capturing and endangerment of his father. It's up to his stuffed animals to save him including his new sock toy that his grandma made for him so it has that special family touch that is needed to save Clark's father. This book is a great example of how special simple toys such as stuffed animals can be in someone's life because of the memories they hold and the places in our hearts they hold too no matter what your age is.
We will consider adding this title to our JFiction collection in our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
December 16, 2019
It's refreshing to read such a fun, action-packed children's chapter book with a ton of kid-appeal. There are so many good middle grade books out there, but a lot of them are really sad. Kids (and adults like me who read a lot of kid books) need a reprieve every once in a while, which is where Stuffed comes in. Sure, there are some heavy elements to the story (Clark's dad's happiness is literally being sucked out of him by invisible monsters and his grandma has cancer), but there are also creepy basements and stuffed animal battles and directions to make your own stuffie. I can even see kids who are a little past the stuffed animal phase enjoying this...and maybe taking their old teddy bear out of the closet.
January 29, 2020
This was an amazingly fun, creepy, and emotional story. As a life long stuffy enthusiast as soon as I saw it and read the premise I knew I had to read it. I just didn’t realize how good it was going to be. I was really amazed at all the different aspects of growing up it tapped into, from dealing with emotional and physical problems in loved ones, and also how you can be an adult and still love things deemed for children. I think this book really encapsulates that message as it’s a charming story that both adults and children can enjoy. I was really emotionally invested. I highly recommend this. Would love to see this made into an animated film I think it would translate well and Hollywood would be smart to pick it up.
August 25, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I was sucked in from the beginning but was still surprised at where the book went. At first, I just thought it was so sweet and I loved how much this kid loved his stuffys. It definitely had some creepy elements that were awesome. I think fans of Toy Story would love this book because it has similar elements, but I think it’s better than Toy Story personally.
November 21, 2019
** I read an advance reader copy of this book. **
This is an adorable, very slightly creepy, action/adventure story with monsters and stuffed animal heroes. Plus, dust bunnies and dust pugs (who are friendly but rather silly and not very bright) and Ap-Lionses (like Espresso Machine and Toaster who love their humans) who also fight the dark. Definitely recommended for middle readers!
This is an adorable, very slightly creepy, action/adventure story with monsters and stuffed animal heroes. Plus, dust bunnies and dust pugs (who are friendly but rather silly and not very bright) and Ap-Lionses (like Espresso Machine and Toaster who love their humans) who also fight the dark. Definitely recommended for middle readers!
November 23, 2019
This book, brazenly, admits no cynicism and is properly fitted to an age level/reading group that shares the same quality. It is about stuffed animals that protect against monsters that wish to retool their humans into skinsuits, and about the little boy that trusts them with heartfelt earnestness.
March 29, 2021
I loved this story so much. It was certainly scary and unnerving at times but it had a lot of heart and I would definitely read it again. So that's a very good sign of a great read. I love how Braswell's mind works, I love that I get to read pieces of it!
December 4, 2019
3.5 stars. See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfi...
STUFFED follows Clark and Foon. Clark is a boy who loves stuffed animals and feels that they keep him safe. However, his mother is pushing him to move away from them and find more "manly" hobbies like baseball. He is also bullied at school, and this centers around his stuffed animals, but really seems to be about power plays (as most bullying is).
Clark's dad receives a box of things from his childhood, which begins his mood spiral into a depression (not specifically defined as such but hinted at strongly). At the same time, Clark feels like he can see a cloudy shape around his father which may be a monster. This is later confirmed by a new friend, who explains the powers of Stuffies and how they can be scored to build up a real army.
Clark becomes more entrenched in this idea and how stuffed animals can help protect his father. The overall story is split every so often with scenes from the perspective of Foon, a stuffed animal that we really meet later. The book also contains some how-to instructions for making simple stuffies in places.
What I loved: This book is really innovative in how it empowers children to be who they are (even if they are a boy who is growing up and loving stuffed animals). The story is quite clever too, in terms of what stuffed animals do and how they fight monsters.
What left me wanting more: I felt like this book could have been something much bigger and deeper than it was. Essentially, the father has depression, but instead of therapy and help, we have stuffed animals fighting the monster that is getting him down. The power of the book to address mental illness is really lessened. There are also some tidbits about his grandmother having cancer, which also could have deepened the story, but they also felt a bit glossed over. This book straddled the line between more serious and more fun, and I would have liked it more if it was one or the other, particularly for the middle grade audience. I also wish his mother had been more supportive and appreciated Clark for being himself. However, we do get the more supportive figures from other teens.
Final verdict: This book is overall cute fun giving stuffed animals a new purpose. While it could have been a much deeper story, it manages to stay pretty light and focus on stuffed animals vs. monster style plots. I would recommend for children who love stuffed animals and fantasy.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
STUFFED follows Clark and Foon. Clark is a boy who loves stuffed animals and feels that they keep him safe. However, his mother is pushing him to move away from them and find more "manly" hobbies like baseball. He is also bullied at school, and this centers around his stuffed animals, but really seems to be about power plays (as most bullying is).
Clark's dad receives a box of things from his childhood, which begins his mood spiral into a depression (not specifically defined as such but hinted at strongly). At the same time, Clark feels like he can see a cloudy shape around his father which may be a monster. This is later confirmed by a new friend, who explains the powers of Stuffies and how they can be scored to build up a real army.
Clark becomes more entrenched in this idea and how stuffed animals can help protect his father. The overall story is split every so often with scenes from the perspective of Foon, a stuffed animal that we really meet later. The book also contains some how-to instructions for making simple stuffies in places.
What I loved: This book is really innovative in how it empowers children to be who they are (even if they are a boy who is growing up and loving stuffed animals). The story is quite clever too, in terms of what stuffed animals do and how they fight monsters.
What left me wanting more: I felt like this book could have been something much bigger and deeper than it was. Essentially, the father has depression, but instead of therapy and help, we have stuffed animals fighting the monster that is getting him down. The power of the book to address mental illness is really lessened. There are also some tidbits about his grandmother having cancer, which also could have deepened the story, but they also felt a bit glossed over. This book straddled the line between more serious and more fun, and I would have liked it more if it was one or the other, particularly for the middle grade audience. I also wish his mother had been more supportive and appreciated Clark for being himself. However, we do get the more supportive figures from other teens.
Final verdict: This book is overall cute fun giving stuffed animals a new purpose. While it could have been a much deeper story, it manages to stay pretty light and focus on stuffed animals vs. monster style plots. I would recommend for children who love stuffed animals and fantasy.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2024
This book was amazing! I absolutely loved it!
This book is about a very brave stuffed animal named Foon, who helps his friend Clark get rid of a monster that is lurking in his house.
In this book, we meet Clark, a fourth grader who loves stuffed animals. Clark’s mother is not too happy with his obsessive interest in stuffed animals and gets rid of them. Here is the thing. In this fictional book, stuffed animals are supposed to protect us from monsters. So, when Clark’s mother gets rid of his stuffed animals, Clark is in real trouble! Fortunately, his Grandma makes him a stuffed animal.
Clark’s mother introduces him to this one child named D.A. She thinks D.A. is normal, and this will help Clark become normal. D.A. tells Clark that stuffed animals protect us from monsters. So now Clark is totally stressed out. D.A. tells Clark he needs to create a new stuffed animal in order to fight the monsters. D.A. also explains to him how to make this one stuffed animal.
In another attempt to help Clark become more normal, his mother sends him away to summer camp. When this happens, Clark is terrified that the monsters will harm his parents, so he asks his older sister Anna to place stuffed animals in his parent’s room. This way, they can protect them.
Clark meets this one girl at camp named Catherine Lucile, who also helps him when it comes to perfecting Foon, and you should really get this book to find out what happens. She sees that stuffed animal Clark’s grandmother gave him and helps him improve on it.
Towards the end of the book, Foon has to face off with this one monster for good. You must read this book to find out what happens.
I think that many people who sleep with stuffed animals, or have slept with stuffed animals as a child, can relate to this one book. Obviously, we were not afraid we would be in danger if we were separated from them. However, we can still really enjoy this story.
The book kept my interest the entire time. It was one of those books that you could not put down at all at the end. I thought that the whole concept was very creative and cute. The story kept moving throughout the book. I will for sure be purchasing the sequel as soon as I get the chance. If you love MG books, you seriously don’t want to miss this one. Go out and get it! You will not be disappointed!
This book is about a very brave stuffed animal named Foon, who helps his friend Clark get rid of a monster that is lurking in his house.
In this book, we meet Clark, a fourth grader who loves stuffed animals. Clark’s mother is not too happy with his obsessive interest in stuffed animals and gets rid of them. Here is the thing. In this fictional book, stuffed animals are supposed to protect us from monsters. So, when Clark’s mother gets rid of his stuffed animals, Clark is in real trouble! Fortunately, his Grandma makes him a stuffed animal.
Clark’s mother introduces him to this one child named D.A. She thinks D.A. is normal, and this will help Clark become normal. D.A. tells Clark that stuffed animals protect us from monsters. So now Clark is totally stressed out. D.A. tells Clark he needs to create a new stuffed animal in order to fight the monsters. D.A. also explains to him how to make this one stuffed animal.
In another attempt to help Clark become more normal, his mother sends him away to summer camp. When this happens, Clark is terrified that the monsters will harm his parents, so he asks his older sister Anna to place stuffed animals in his parent’s room. This way, they can protect them.
Clark meets this one girl at camp named Catherine Lucile, who also helps him when it comes to perfecting Foon, and you should really get this book to find out what happens. She sees that stuffed animal Clark’s grandmother gave him and helps him improve on it.
Towards the end of the book, Foon has to face off with this one monster for good. You must read this book to find out what happens.
I think that many people who sleep with stuffed animals, or have slept with stuffed animals as a child, can relate to this one book. Obviously, we were not afraid we would be in danger if we were separated from them. However, we can still really enjoy this story.
The book kept my interest the entire time. It was one of those books that you could not put down at all at the end. I thought that the whole concept was very creative and cute. The story kept moving throughout the book. I will for sure be purchasing the sequel as soon as I get the chance. If you love MG books, you seriously don’t want to miss this one. Go out and get it! You will not be disappointed!
May 26, 2025
I'd grabbed this book at a library book sale - it's not one I'd seen or heard about anywhere, but I saw it had good ratings. Perfect for my #middlegradeMay challenge (something I might not get to otherwise). Even though I had the physical book, I borrowed the audio and kindle copy from the library, and went primarily with audio.
Kid book & HORROR don't usually go together (although I know there is some "scary stuff" out there). This wasn't bad, "cute scary" ... or at least "cute protectors". The main character is 10 years old, but still sleeping with his "stuffies" as he can feel there's bad stuff out there, and that they protect him and his family.
It was cute when his mom arranged a playdate, hoping to get him socializing with more athletic/normal kids, and the other kid also happens to be a "stuffie" expert, and that these cute stuffed animals are "rated" with some providing more protection than others. The MC ends up shipped off to camp, where he meets more kids with knowledge of the stuffed animal arts. Unfortunately, this leaves his father (infected by a bad something) back at home and his mom redecorating his room (packing away his stuffed animals).
On the cover - is FOON, a creature hand-created by Grandma. Foon has several one-page "chapters" (not numerically labeled as chapters, just little inserts) throughout the book. In print, the text is in italics, atrocious spelling (and the tense switches from 3rd person to 1st person - Foon's POV) ... in audio, unique voice, which added to the fun feel.
36 chapters, not including some "inset" sections, Foon's jumping in, and two "how to" sections in the text, and one more as the epilogue. They were fun additions! The chapters had "Day/Night" headers ... Kindle table of contents was good, showing everything. Audio TOC was lacking, just the basic numerical chapters (no headers, extra sections). Per usual, the physical book doesn't even deign to provide a TOC.
It was cute ... I'm trying to imagine me at 10 reading it and what I'd think. I was never scared of monsters under the bed, but I did love stuffed animals and had a huge collection.
Kid book & HORROR don't usually go together (although I know there is some "scary stuff" out there). This wasn't bad, "cute scary" ... or at least "cute protectors". The main character is 10 years old, but still sleeping with his "stuffies" as he can feel there's bad stuff out there, and that they protect him and his family.
It was cute when his mom arranged a playdate, hoping to get him socializing with more athletic/normal kids, and the other kid also happens to be a "stuffie" expert, and that these cute stuffed animals are "rated" with some providing more protection than others. The MC ends up shipped off to camp, where he meets more kids with knowledge of the stuffed animal arts. Unfortunately, this leaves his father (infected by a bad something) back at home and his mom redecorating his room (packing away his stuffed animals).
On the cover - is FOON, a creature hand-created by Grandma. Foon has several one-page "chapters" (not numerically labeled as chapters, just little inserts) throughout the book. In print, the text is in italics, atrocious spelling (and the tense switches from 3rd person to 1st person - Foon's POV) ... in audio, unique voice, which added to the fun feel.
36 chapters, not including some "inset" sections, Foon's jumping in, and two "how to" sections in the text, and one more as the epilogue. They were fun additions! The chapters had "Day/Night" headers ... Kindle table of contents was good, showing everything. Audio TOC was lacking, just the basic numerical chapters (no headers, extra sections). Per usual, the physical book doesn't even deign to provide a TOC.
It was cute ... I'm trying to imagine me at 10 reading it and what I'd think. I was never scared of monsters under the bed, but I did love stuffed animals and had a huge collection.
February 12, 2020
This book is both adorable and moving. It is written in two layers.
The first layer is fairly straightforward and is about a boy who lives in a house infested with monsters and the brave little stuffy that vows to save him. The second layer, which would be more obvious to adult or advanced readers, is about depression and the childhood trauma we sometimes carry into our adult lives.
Foon, the handmade stuffy who is charged with keeping Clark safe, is both valiant and loveable and could be considered a personification of the little boy’s need to overcome his own fears.
Clark is soon to be entering the 5th grade and his mother feels he has an unhealthy obsession with his stuffed animals. I felt as though the early chapters of this book made Clark sound much younger. One early chapter details a “play-date” Clark has with another boy. His inner dialog and thoughts might lead the reader to believe that he is younger than intended.
This book also includes some excellent side characters who are fully developed. This book also deals partially with Clark’s experiences being bullied, a grandmother who is receiving chemo therapy for cancer, and depression. These story arcs are handled very well and the reader watches Clark gain confidence through the interactions with his friends. Although we do not get to see Clark confront his bully, the reader is left with the feeling that Clark has grown throughout the story and will be able to face his own fears.
With that aside, I think Stuffed could be enjoyed by adults as well as children, but has a target audience in children who are comfortable reading chapters. This would be a good pick for younger children who are advanced readers looking for a book that doesn’t have a romantic plot. As a bonus, this book also includes instructions on how to make your own stuffed animals.
The first layer is fairly straightforward and is about a boy who lives in a house infested with monsters and the brave little stuffy that vows to save him. The second layer, which would be more obvious to adult or advanced readers, is about depression and the childhood trauma we sometimes carry into our adult lives.
Foon, the handmade stuffy who is charged with keeping Clark safe, is both valiant and loveable and could be considered a personification of the little boy’s need to overcome his own fears.
Clark is soon to be entering the 5th grade and his mother feels he has an unhealthy obsession with his stuffed animals. I felt as though the early chapters of this book made Clark sound much younger. One early chapter details a “play-date” Clark has with another boy. His inner dialog and thoughts might lead the reader to believe that he is younger than intended.
This book also includes some excellent side characters who are fully developed. This book also deals partially with Clark’s experiences being bullied, a grandmother who is receiving chemo therapy for cancer, and depression. These story arcs are handled very well and the reader watches Clark gain confidence through the interactions with his friends. Although we do not get to see Clark confront his bully, the reader is left with the feeling that Clark has grown throughout the story and will be able to face his own fears.
With that aside, I think Stuffed could be enjoyed by adults as well as children, but has a target audience in children who are comfortable reading chapters. This would be a good pick for younger children who are advanced readers looking for a book that doesn’t have a romantic plot. As a bonus, this book also includes instructions on how to make your own stuffed animals.
February 13, 2025
This book is so good and creative, and honestly wouldn't be too out of place for a Halloween read in spite of its summer setting. At one point or another the majority of us were afraid of things that went bump in the night, the creepy shadows that appeared, the monster under the bed, there's a lot of spooks in a kids imagination but our stuffed toys were steadfast companions who we would be brave enough to save if they fell down the side of the bed at night and kept us feeling safe. Clark is an 11 year old boy who collects stuffed animals and believes that they protect him from monsters. For the longest time we see no real proof of these monsters however toys go missing from the bed or room during the night are found in the morning and somehow wind up damaged (pet free house) and Clark knows, even if no one else in his family believes him, that if the stuffed toys were gone the monsters would get him. His family dynamic isn't all that great as his dad is sort of sick most of the book, and his mom wants a normal ball throwing kid and desperately tries to change Clark by some rage inducing tactics. One of those tactics backfires however and Clark meets a kid that says that his fears are real and the monsters exist and people can't fight them but their stuffed toys or action figures can. Also adults seem to forget around the age of 16 that the monsters exist as its extremely rare for the monsters to go after an adult. The book chapters go from day to night and the differences between the two times are stark and eventually we get to meet Foon, Clarks newest stuffed toy who gets in on the story telling action by interacting with the reader and has his own chapters. I have no idea how I came across this book but I loved it and have the sequel ready to go.
January 30, 2020
I loved the concept and I loved Clark, his sister Anna, their Grandma Machen, and Clark's new friends. I devoured the first half of the book, but I found myself not as entranced by Foon's part of the story. I liked his interactions with the Ap-Lionses, but the rest just didn't grab me. I think I missed Clark during those chapters. He had interludes, but they were very short. Also, I wished we knew more about Dad before the arrival of the Monster. We are only given vague details about his childhood which might have made him more susceptible, but we don't know him as an adult. I feel like there was a major change in Dad after , but since we didn't know Dad before, I might have been reading something into it that wasn't there. Overall, this is a fun story, especially for those who love their stuffies. 3.5 stars
October 10, 2020
This is a fun tale of a Clark along with his stuffed animals, monsters that have invaded his house and...well, I can't way because it might spoil an along-the-way surprise. Yes, the cover helps give something away--stuffed animals are the only ones that can fight these monsters that only come out at night. This is no book where a boy grows up and realizes that this was all in his head. In fact, the opposite happens--he learns he is right, but of course the stuffies can't act while he's awake. Things are not looking good because--and this is rare--the monster is attacking his dad who isn't protected by stuffies or dolls, even though normally adults are safe.
There are many fun little things that come up with this about stuffed animals, which ones are the strongest, family things, growing up and more.
There are many fun little things that come up with this about stuffed animals, which ones are the strongest, family things, growing up and more.
August 24, 2022
4.5 / 5 stars
"Stuffed proves those of us who still sleep with stuffed animals have been right all along "- James Riley
You can tell that this was written for a younger audience but as an adult, I still enjoyed it very much. I really like that we get little tutorials on how we can make our own stuffed animals. As a kid, I always slept with my stuffed animals so I get Clark. Now as an adult I still collect cute stuffed animals and they're still in bed with me ( most of them are animals or theme park related )
We get to read from Clark's perspective and Foon our hero stuffed animal. I find Clark's mother a bit annoying and what is wrong with sleeping with stuffed animals and playing with them even tho you're in 5th grade?
I was able to finish did under 3 hours so it's a fast read and great for reading sprints.
"Stuffed proves those of us who still sleep with stuffed animals have been right all along "- James Riley
You can tell that this was written for a younger audience but as an adult, I still enjoyed it very much. I really like that we get little tutorials on how we can make our own stuffed animals. As a kid, I always slept with my stuffed animals so I get Clark. Now as an adult I still collect cute stuffed animals and they're still in bed with me ( most of them are animals or theme park related )
We get to read from Clark's perspective and Foon our hero stuffed animal. I find Clark's mother a bit annoying and what is wrong with sleeping with stuffed animals and playing with them even tho you're in 5th grade?
I was able to finish did under 3 hours so it's a fast read and great for reading sprints.
Read
April 14, 2020Clark is absolutely obsessed with stuffed animals, even though his parents think he is way too old for him. What Clark’s parents don't understand is that the stuffed animals protect the house from danger. Follow Clark as he meets new, like-minded friends, acquires more stuffed animals, and tries to convince his parents that he needs the stuffies for everyone’s safety.
This was a quick, creepy read that is perfect for kids who know their stuffed animals are keeping them safe from monsters at night. The text was interspersed with directions to make your own stuffies, and interludes from Foon, Clark's newest stuffie from his grandmother, will keep readers engaged.
Recommended by librarian Heather
This was a quick, creepy read that is perfect for kids who know their stuffed animals are keeping them safe from monsters at night. The text was interspersed with directions to make your own stuffies, and interludes from Foon, Clark's newest stuffie from his grandmother, will keep readers engaged.
Recommended by librarian Heather
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