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Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters has descriptive copy which is not yet available from the Publisher.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2023
8 people are currently reading
3427 people want to read
About the author
Ciannon Smart
5 books766 followersCiannon Smart grew up in a small town in the south-east of England. As the only daughter in a house full of boisterous sons, she developed a voracious appetite for reading from an early age, preferring anarchy in stories rather than real life. In YA she loves her heroines exactly as she loves her villains: wilful, wily, and unpredictable. When not writing, Ciannon can be found reading, painting, or taking the long way home to listen to a good song more than once.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 18, 2024
review to come
August 13, 2024
I’m embarrassed that I got an ARC of this in ebook format on Netgalley back in 2023, and I unfortunately did not get a chance to read it until this summer. Fortunately, my library had the audiobook on Libby, so I was able to listen to this. I am sad to say that I didn’t enjoy this as much as I would have liked. I don’t know what it was. I never got truly sucked into the book. I liked it, but I didn’t love it. I will say that I felt a little disconnected from it. I don’t know if it was the narrator, because I did like his voice. I’m a sucker for Black British actors and narrators, and he did a very good job with all the accents, be it posh English, Caribbean, working class Londoner, Irish, you name it. But despite that, the book just felt dry.
I did like the concept of Rayleigh’s father being the actual Bogey Man, and his heritage as a “monster”. Yes, it does have some aspects that bring to mind Harry Potter, and Percy Jackson but with a different spin. And I loved the ethnic diversity. Rayleigh is a young black boy Londoner whose paternal family hails from Jamaica. I loved the notes about family and heritage, but I feel like for the book being about Rayleigh’s relationship to his father, he doesn’t play a very large part. And Rayleigh’s mother is hardly in the book at all. What I did like was the strong bond between Rayleigh and his uncle. I love how his uncle calls him “Nephew Mine.” I also enjoy some of the side characters, such as Bloody Mary (and I like what the author did with her). There are some trolls, one of which likes to cook. The big bad character had a nice sinister, almost spooky edge. And there were a couple of interesting twists in the story.
But I was just underwhelmed. I just wanted something deep and to be more drawn into the story. It was a bit of a slog to listen to, and the end, when it comes, sort of arrived out of nowhere, with a pretty big cliffhanger. I really liked the pieces of this book, it just came together in a way that was disappointing. That said, I will definitely continue to read this series because I do like the characters and the concept.
I did like the concept of Rayleigh’s father being the actual Bogey Man, and his heritage as a “monster”. Yes, it does have some aspects that bring to mind Harry Potter, and Percy Jackson but with a different spin. And I loved the ethnic diversity. Rayleigh is a young black boy Londoner whose paternal family hails from Jamaica. I loved the notes about family and heritage, but I feel like for the book being about Rayleigh’s relationship to his father, he doesn’t play a very large part. And Rayleigh’s mother is hardly in the book at all. What I did like was the strong bond between Rayleigh and his uncle. I love how his uncle calls him “Nephew Mine.” I also enjoy some of the side characters, such as Bloody Mary (and I like what the author did with her). There are some trolls, one of which likes to cook. The big bad character had a nice sinister, almost spooky edge. And there were a couple of interesting twists in the story.
But I was just underwhelmed. I just wanted something deep and to be more drawn into the story. It was a bit of a slog to listen to, and the end, when it comes, sort of arrived out of nowhere, with a pretty big cliffhanger. I really liked the pieces of this book, it just came together in a way that was disappointing. That said, I will definitely continue to read this series because I do like the characters and the concept.
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February 15, 2023tl;dr
Magical adventures that spark the imagination anchor a story about learning to embrace one's self in a very VERY fun read.
About
A prankster and a troublemaker, Rayleigh has always felt a little out of place. But on Halloween night, he's whisked away to an underground world full of magic and monsters. There he discovers that he's the son of the Bogey Mann himself, and that a new life of magic awaits him. Only problem is, his father has gone missing, and the magical world might fall apart unless Rayleigh can get him back.
Thoughts
What a fun book! Amidst all the scares and self-reflection, there is an exciting and joy-filled adventure about discovering magic in the world and embracing one's self. The narrative about learning to embrace one's identity, and also how we get to choose who we become, will resonate with any kid whose felt like they don't fit in. I'm sure I could have used this back then. Rayleigh's wonder as each new piece of magic he discovers was palpable, and there is a stunning amount of world building. Sentient apartments, weather witches, flight, and trials for kids to prove themselves. Ugh, it has all the things, and I love it. There was also a vast array of world mythology in it, with Bloody Mary instantly claiming top spot as my favorite character. I think my only frustration is Rayleigh's as well - I hate when adults won't be honest with kids. Please picture me yelling at the book "Hey, just tell him already!" I think Rayleigh would agree.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the advance copy. Continue to support the union!
Magical adventures that spark the imagination anchor a story about learning to embrace one's self in a very VERY fun read.
About
A prankster and a troublemaker, Rayleigh has always felt a little out of place. But on Halloween night, he's whisked away to an underground world full of magic and monsters. There he discovers that he's the son of the Bogey Mann himself, and that a new life of magic awaits him. Only problem is, his father has gone missing, and the magical world might fall apart unless Rayleigh can get him back.
Thoughts
What a fun book! Amidst all the scares and self-reflection, there is an exciting and joy-filled adventure about discovering magic in the world and embracing one's self. The narrative about learning to embrace one's identity, and also how we get to choose who we become, will resonate with any kid whose felt like they don't fit in. I'm sure I could have used this back then. Rayleigh's wonder as each new piece of magic he discovers was palpable, and there is a stunning amount of world building. Sentient apartments, weather witches, flight, and trials for kids to prove themselves. Ugh, it has all the things, and I love it. There was also a vast array of world mythology in it, with Bloody Mary instantly claiming top spot as my favorite character. I think my only frustration is Rayleigh's as well - I hate when adults won't be honest with kids. Please picture me yelling at the book "Hey, just tell him already!" I think Rayleigh would agree.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the advance copy. Continue to support the union!
October 13, 2023
This book is for 9 years plus.
I like a lot of the books for children, maybe I just haven’t grown up, this one though I really couldn’t get on with, unfortunate every time I tried to read it I actually started falling asleep and I couldn’t follow which line I was on so kept repeating the same again and again.
The story is about Rayleigh Mann and starts with him trying to get home before his mum or Nan can get a call from school about his behaviour again, he didn’t realise his aim was so strong and didn’t mean to smash the window, same way he didn’t mean for the teacher to have so much super glue on the chair that when he stooped his trousers ripped off, he is always in detention and this particular evening was All Hallows Eve and he was going to sneak out and go trick or treating with his friends, at least that’s the plan but it didn’t work out like that when he met his uncle who annoyed me something awful by keep calling Rayleigh Nephew mine.
Afraid I found it to be lots of words that I couldn’t make a story from, probably because of keep falling asleep
I like a lot of the books for children, maybe I just haven’t grown up, this one though I really couldn’t get on with, unfortunate every time I tried to read it I actually started falling asleep and I couldn’t follow which line I was on so kept repeating the same again and again.
The story is about Rayleigh Mann and starts with him trying to get home before his mum or Nan can get a call from school about his behaviour again, he didn’t realise his aim was so strong and didn’t mean to smash the window, same way he didn’t mean for the teacher to have so much super glue on the chair that when he stooped his trousers ripped off, he is always in detention and this particular evening was All Hallows Eve and he was going to sneak out and go trick or treating with his friends, at least that’s the plan but it didn’t work out like that when he met his uncle who annoyed me something awful by keep calling Rayleigh Nephew mine.
Afraid I found it to be lots of words that I couldn’t make a story from, probably because of keep falling asleep
July 25, 2023
This is my first contact with the books of this author but I'm already a fan.
Creative world-building and concept. A mirror world under London with a magical society where Rayleigh discovers more about himself and his family of monsters and what monsters are meant to do.
Hits all the marks for me with a large cast of interesting characters, secrets, mystery, a world to uncover, trials and riddles, shapeshifters, and different magical creatures. This first book has a lot of action and establishes a solid world and adventure for a new series. Looking forward to reading more. I love Marley and also the fairy in the bulb.
Fans of School for Good and Evil and Amari and the Night Brothers.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this eARC.
Creative world-building and concept. A mirror world under London with a magical society where Rayleigh discovers more about himself and his family of monsters and what monsters are meant to do.
Hits all the marks for me with a large cast of interesting characters, secrets, mystery, a world to uncover, trials and riddles, shapeshifters, and different magical creatures. This first book has a lot of action and establishes a solid world and adventure for a new series. Looking forward to reading more. I love Marley and also the fairy in the bulb.
Fans of School for Good and Evil and Amari and the Night Brothers.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this eARC.
November 29, 2023
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters
Rating: 3.5
Thank you HarperCollins for providing an e-copy through NetGalley
Synopsis: Rayleigh Mann is a troublemaker, breaking things, disrupting teachers, and getting into detentions constantly. On Halloween, he decides to meet up with some classmates to get some candy and prank the neighborhood, but the night doesn’t go as planned. For starters, what Rayleigh thought were costumes turn out to be very, very real, and monsters walk the streets of London. Not only that, but the monsters seem to be after him! After sprinting home and watching a battle in his own living room, a monster named Thelonius reveals that the folklore stories his Nana tells are all true, and that he is Rayleigh’s uncle. Thelonius brings Rayleigh to Below-London, a place where monsters thrive and produce the energy needed for Above-London to survive, showing him the start of his new life and grow into his monster heritage. For Rayleigh’s father is the Bogey Man, the leader of the monsters, and the scariest of them all. But he is missing, and it is up to Rayleigh to find the father he never knew. And, while his tricks got him into trouble as a human, being a troublemaker as a monster just might help him navigate this new and dangerous world straight out of a storybook’s adventures…and nightmares.
What I Liked: Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters is a delightfully fun adventure of monsters, secrets, and spectacular hijinks. We watch as Rayleigh learns to accept himself as a monster, solving riddles and trials with his own trickery, cunning, and mischief. The story showcases Caribbean folklore and monsterology and integrates them into the world building, which is simplistic yet fascinating as readers get to meet various shapeshifters, creatures, horrors, and beasts in Below-London. The writing is action-packed and humorous, with Rayleigh navigating the new world with skepticism, middle-school sass, and a sharp eye. The side characters are colorful and supportive. Rayleigh Mann and his family are Black.
What I Didn’t Like: The pacing is not the greatest. It can be really slow or blindingly fast depending on the chapter or scene. Dialogue tends to be slow and has lots of exposition, while action is quick and immediate. This can lead to some scenes dragging on/having much to be excited about, and then the good parts zipping by too quickly. It was hard to get through the novel many times. Also, readers won’t really know who Rayleigh is until ⅓ into the story. At the beginning, which goes by very quickly, readers are told through his inner thoughts that Rayleigh is a troublemaker - but we never actually see this happen, so his arc of accepting the monster within himself doesn’t hit as hard as it could. Rayleigh and his same-aged companions also tend to have jarring dialogue/thoughts, as they use words or phrases that seem too old for them - they sound like adults, taking the readers out of the story.
Review Date: November 29, 2023
Rating: 3.5
Thank you HarperCollins for providing an e-copy through NetGalley
Synopsis: Rayleigh Mann is a troublemaker, breaking things, disrupting teachers, and getting into detentions constantly. On Halloween, he decides to meet up with some classmates to get some candy and prank the neighborhood, but the night doesn’t go as planned. For starters, what Rayleigh thought were costumes turn out to be very, very real, and monsters walk the streets of London. Not only that, but the monsters seem to be after him! After sprinting home and watching a battle in his own living room, a monster named Thelonius reveals that the folklore stories his Nana tells are all true, and that he is Rayleigh’s uncle. Thelonius brings Rayleigh to Below-London, a place where monsters thrive and produce the energy needed for Above-London to survive, showing him the start of his new life and grow into his monster heritage. For Rayleigh’s father is the Bogey Man, the leader of the monsters, and the scariest of them all. But he is missing, and it is up to Rayleigh to find the father he never knew. And, while his tricks got him into trouble as a human, being a troublemaker as a monster just might help him navigate this new and dangerous world straight out of a storybook’s adventures…and nightmares.
What I Liked: Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters is a delightfully fun adventure of monsters, secrets, and spectacular hijinks. We watch as Rayleigh learns to accept himself as a monster, solving riddles and trials with his own trickery, cunning, and mischief. The story showcases Caribbean folklore and monsterology and integrates them into the world building, which is simplistic yet fascinating as readers get to meet various shapeshifters, creatures, horrors, and beasts in Below-London. The writing is action-packed and humorous, with Rayleigh navigating the new world with skepticism, middle-school sass, and a sharp eye. The side characters are colorful and supportive. Rayleigh Mann and his family are Black.
What I Didn’t Like: The pacing is not the greatest. It can be really slow or blindingly fast depending on the chapter or scene. Dialogue tends to be slow and has lots of exposition, while action is quick and immediate. This can lead to some scenes dragging on/having much to be excited about, and then the good parts zipping by too quickly. It was hard to get through the novel many times. Also, readers won’t really know who Rayleigh is until ⅓ into the story. At the beginning, which goes by very quickly, readers are told through his inner thoughts that Rayleigh is a troublemaker - but we never actually see this happen, so his arc of accepting the monster within himself doesn’t hit as hard as it could. Rayleigh and his same-aged companions also tend to have jarring dialogue/thoughts, as they use words or phrases that seem too old for them - they sound like adults, taking the readers out of the story.
Review Date: November 29, 2023
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December 19, 2023Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters is the first book in an engaging and well written middle-grade UF series by Ciannon Smart. Released 8th Aug 2023 by HarperCollins on their Children's imprint, it's 368 pages and is available in all formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
It's always exciting and fun to find a new series and voice in UF, especially one which is kid-friendly. This intro has a cool and tough (but generally good) protagonist, who happens to be a demi-monster (his dad's Bogey Mann (yes, that one)). His backstory is well written and fleshed out, and if teachers reading the story can imagine how challenging he could be in a classroom, the kids reading will find a relatable, believable outsider hero, and grand adventure.
It's also nice that Rayleigh's background, and much of the lore, are from the Caribbean. Representation is so important, and having a well written story with a main character who isn't white shows kids of color that they -can- be the main character, and exposes caucasian kids to a wider circle of cultures and lived experiences. The book manages to tread the line without being preachy or obvious; it's nice to see what I hope is a sea change coming for literature and entertainment media.
One note about the spelling and editing. The story is set in urban London (UK), but most of the spellings and vernacular are AmEnglish. It's noticeable and clearly an intentional editorial decision.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 10 hours, 55 minutes and is capably narrated by Jake Fairbrother. He has a crisp, very well modulated, classically trained voice and handles the various accents very well.
Four stars. It's a good book. A well written and an exciting fantasy romp, after a slightly slow background start; the fate of many series first intros. It would make an excellent public or school library acquisition, for gift giving, and home use.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters is the first book in an engaging and well written middle-grade UF series by Ciannon Smart. Released 8th Aug 2023 by HarperCollins on their Children's imprint, it's 368 pages and is available in all formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
It's always exciting and fun to find a new series and voice in UF, especially one which is kid-friendly. This intro has a cool and tough (but generally good) protagonist, who happens to be a demi-monster (his dad's Bogey Mann (yes, that one)). His backstory is well written and fleshed out, and if teachers reading the story can imagine how challenging he could be in a classroom, the kids reading will find a relatable, believable outsider hero, and grand adventure.
It's also nice that Rayleigh's background, and much of the lore, are from the Caribbean. Representation is so important, and having a well written story with a main character who isn't white shows kids of color that they -can- be the main character, and exposes caucasian kids to a wider circle of cultures and lived experiences. The book manages to tread the line without being preachy or obvious; it's nice to see what I hope is a sea change coming for literature and entertainment media.
One note about the spelling and editing. The story is set in urban London (UK), but most of the spellings and vernacular are AmEnglish. It's noticeable and clearly an intentional editorial decision.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 10 hours, 55 minutes and is capably narrated by Jake Fairbrother. He has a crisp, very well modulated, classically trained voice and handles the various accents very well.
Four stars. It's a good book. A well written and an exciting fantasy romp, after a slightly slow background start; the fate of many series first intros. It would make an excellent public or school library acquisition, for gift giving, and home use.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 31, 2023
Rayleigh Mann likes to sneak around and get the better of his teachers as well as his Nana and his Mama. At Halloween, he makes a special effort. After all, there's all those trick or treat goodies to hide away in his pillowcase! This year, however, is turning out a little differently than usual. The disguises are really good, but those wearing them seem to be intent on grabbing him!
When he is taken to a whole new world in Below London, Rayleigh finds things out about his dad's side of the family he wouldn't have ever believed if there wasn't proof right in front of him! In the world of Above London, Rayleigh was an unwelcome terror who never saw his dad, but now that's a good thing because his dad's vanished and he is going to find him.
The first in a new middle grade sci-fi series this is a fun read, and although there are lots of characters to remember, you just need to keep your wits about you! I did feel some of the dialogue and thoughts attributed to Rayleigh weren't what a twelve-year-old would use, and these were quite noticeable at times. There is an underlying message about what behaviour is or isn't acceptable from anyone which is part of the fast moving storyline about finding and accepting who you are and making it work for you, whatever world you inhabit!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bonnier Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I enjoyed this very much and look forward to reading more about Rayleigh and his friends' exploits in the future.
When he is taken to a whole new world in Below London, Rayleigh finds things out about his dad's side of the family he wouldn't have ever believed if there wasn't proof right in front of him! In the world of Above London, Rayleigh was an unwelcome terror who never saw his dad, but now that's a good thing because his dad's vanished and he is going to find him.
The first in a new middle grade sci-fi series this is a fun read, and although there are lots of characters to remember, you just need to keep your wits about you! I did feel some of the dialogue and thoughts attributed to Rayleigh weren't what a twelve-year-old would use, and these were quite noticeable at times. There is an underlying message about what behaviour is or isn't acceptable from anyone which is part of the fast moving storyline about finding and accepting who you are and making it work for you, whatever world you inhabit!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bonnier Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I enjoyed this very much and look forward to reading more about Rayleigh and his friends' exploits in the future.
October 15, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Rayleigh Mann in the company of monsters.
It’s a wonderfully contrived story which turns not only London (and the rest of the world) on it’s head but also the concept of monsters. Of course, the London Rayleigh comes from is not quite the London we know, and there are still some bad monsters, but all that is fine too.
My only problem with the book was that I found some of it a little jarring. Maybe it was the use of vocabulary I wouldn’t expect from a twelve year old, or maybe some sentences just rang the wrong bell for me.
I still have the word “apropos” buzzing around in my head, for example. It’s a word that I don’t think I’ve ever used myself, even though it is in my vocabulary. I’ve never felt the need to use it I suppose and I guess my brain is still struggling to fathom why it was needed here.
I loved the characters, but my favourites were Thelonius and Marley.
It was a great adventure and, even at my ripe old age, I’m tempted to follow the series.
Thank you to Readers First, Piccadilly Press and Ciannon Smart for the ARC in return for my honest review.
It’s a wonderfully contrived story which turns not only London (and the rest of the world) on it’s head but also the concept of monsters. Of course, the London Rayleigh comes from is not quite the London we know, and there are still some bad monsters, but all that is fine too.
My only problem with the book was that I found some of it a little jarring. Maybe it was the use of vocabulary I wouldn’t expect from a twelve year old, or maybe some sentences just rang the wrong bell for me.
I still have the word “apropos” buzzing around in my head, for example. It’s a word that I don’t think I’ve ever used myself, even though it is in my vocabulary. I’ve never felt the need to use it I suppose and I guess my brain is still struggling to fathom why it was needed here.
I loved the characters, but my favourites were Thelonius and Marley.
It was a great adventure and, even at my ripe old age, I’m tempted to follow the series.
Thank you to Readers First, Piccadilly Press and Ciannon Smart for the ARC in return for my honest review.
October 29, 2023
Some children's books are gripping and get right into the story but I felt this was slow going, and I just found I had no interest in picking it up.
I struggled a little with the writing style as well, as spellings and many phrases were American and yet it was based in south London - it just didn't gel. And when anglicisms were included they seemed a little forced (e.g. pukka which I thought went out of common speech with Jamie Oliver). Add to that the Below-London aspect just screamed Neverwhere to me.
The book follows Rayleigh Mann who is always getting into trouble at school and spends a lot of time in detention. It is Halloween and he goes out with his friends trick or treating, but it doesn't go according to plan as he is 'snatched' by his uncle who wants to take him to a parallel world beneath London, which is accessed by floo powder ... sorry a coin, an instruction and a laundry basket to help search for his dad Bogey Mann.
I am sure kids will love this book but it wasn't one I could get into.
Thanks to Readers First for a review copy.
I struggled a little with the writing style as well, as spellings and many phrases were American and yet it was based in south London - it just didn't gel. And when anglicisms were included they seemed a little forced (e.g. pukka which I thought went out of common speech with Jamie Oliver). Add to that the Below-London aspect just screamed Neverwhere to me.
The book follows Rayleigh Mann who is always getting into trouble at school and spends a lot of time in detention. It is Halloween and he goes out with his friends trick or treating, but it doesn't go according to plan as he is 'snatched' by his uncle who wants to take him to a parallel world beneath London, which is accessed by floo powder ... sorry a coin, an instruction and a laundry basket to help search for his dad Bogey Mann.
I am sure kids will love this book but it wasn't one I could get into.
Thanks to Readers First for a review copy.
November 2, 2023
The cover Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters, is brilliant it draws attention to this book. The story is full of a characters, a bit like in the real world, but with a flair of a little fantasy.
This story is definitely just right for young teenagers or for 9 years and up, with mischief, mayhem and scary monsters.
As this novel is fresh and different I think it would be great for young teenagers if there was a trilogy of Rayleigh Mann.
This story had me scared and I’m not a teenager!
There’s a party, people dressed with fangs and wizards with spells being done by homemade wands. Harry Potter, fans will love this novel. Rayleigh and his friends had planned an elaborate prank every Hallows Eve.
He had never took part in one before, so this was his first All Hallows Eve out on his own. Rayleigh’s Nan is always talking about monsters.
With Rayleigh being captured by a horned man that looks like a monster, and a weird girl,that knows all about Rayleigh, he thinks someone is playing a prank on him, waiting for someone to save him.
I don’t want to give too much away
I suspect Rayleigh will never be out on his own again, or will he ?
Definitely one novel I recommend to Middle grade readers!
This story is definitely just right for young teenagers or for 9 years and up, with mischief, mayhem and scary monsters.
As this novel is fresh and different I think it would be great for young teenagers if there was a trilogy of Rayleigh Mann.
This story had me scared and I’m not a teenager!
There’s a party, people dressed with fangs and wizards with spells being done by homemade wands. Harry Potter, fans will love this novel. Rayleigh and his friends had planned an elaborate prank every Hallows Eve.
He had never took part in one before, so this was his first All Hallows Eve out on his own. Rayleigh’s Nan is always talking about monsters.
With Rayleigh being captured by a horned man that looks like a monster, and a weird girl,that knows all about Rayleigh, he thinks someone is playing a prank on him, waiting for someone to save him.
I don’t want to give too much away
I suspect Rayleigh will never be out on his own again, or will he ?
Definitely one novel I recommend to Middle grade readers!
September 26, 2023
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters by Ciannon Smart tells the story of twelve year old Rayleigh who lives with his mum and nana and is always getting up to mischief and having school detention. Raleigh sneaks out on All Hallows’ Eve and is captured and taken to a new world in Below-London by his uncle Thelonious Tickle. In this Below-London world, The Confederation of Lightless Places, Rayleigh discovers that his dad is in fact Robert - the Bogey Mann and he is missing. Raleigh has to pass three trials over the next fortnight as part of The Monstrous 101 Induction to determine his monstrous heritage and, if successful, decide whether to live permanently in the above or below world.
The book is full of mischief, mayhem and monsters. It is fast paced and fun and whilst I did struggle to keep up with all of the characters, I am not the target readership, and I am sure younger minds will be just fine with them all! I am also certain there will be more fun packed Raleigh Mann adventures to come.
Thank you to Readers First and Bonnier Books for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my independent and honest opinion.
July 20, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this novel. 4/5 stars.
This is a delightful middle-grade novel set in a world where all the monsters from stories exist. It's lowkey like Monsters Inc., where the monsters produce clean energy by scaring and other monstery things with the world above BUT this power also powers the world above. Rayleigh's life turns upside down when he turns 12 and discovers he has monster ancestry. He goes below to face trials and essentially what is monster puberty...all while searching for his missing dad (the supreme leader of monsters) and learning more about himself and his monster side. There's a found family with a troll, a shadow, literally Bloody Mary, and then Rayleigh's friend Marley.
I enjoyed this from the monster world to the trials and ultimately the end and what it leaves open for more books in the series. It was a cleverly crafted world, and it's also hilarious with humor.
This is a delightful middle-grade novel set in a world where all the monsters from stories exist. It's lowkey like Monsters Inc., where the monsters produce clean energy by scaring and other monstery things with the world above BUT this power also powers the world above. Rayleigh's life turns upside down when he turns 12 and discovers he has monster ancestry. He goes below to face trials and essentially what is monster puberty...all while searching for his missing dad (the supreme leader of monsters) and learning more about himself and his monster side. There's a found family with a troll, a shadow, literally Bloody Mary, and then Rayleigh's friend Marley.
I enjoyed this from the monster world to the trials and ultimately the end and what it leaves open for more books in the series. It was a cleverly crafted world, and it's also hilarious with humor.
September 3, 2023
It took me a little while to get into this book. Much like the Harry Potter series, the initial chapters set in the real world are somewhat tedious and the first introduction to the fantasy alternative world feels a bit rushed and confused. But once the reader arrives in Under-London proper, the story kicks into high gear and does a great job of balancing plot development, world building, & characters that are interesting without being overly trope-ish. Plus the pun game is fun as heck, even if it does pretty obviously telegraph current and future villains. I look forward to reading more of this series! Smart’s ability to craft a compelling world with interesting heroes has grown in leaps and bounds since her first full length novel (previously reviewed on this site). The character development and world building talent was always there, now she’s starting to nail the length and flow as well.
September 26, 2023
Oh Mann...there's monsters...
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters was a fairly entertaining read. Pitched at older children or young adults, it's a fairly easy read set in a magical realm - although not too far away from London.
For those who love the Harry Potter books, I'm guessing you will also enjoy this tale. And as with the Harry Potter books, I wouldn't be surprised if this is the start of a new series.
With lots of magical creatures to discover, our plucky 12 year old Rayleigh is set on an adventure - both personally and physically.
Given that it's aimed at a younger audience, I still enjoyed this tale and it's absolutely perfect for October / Halloween reading.
The cover has a wonderful illustration and there are other smaller illustrations at the beginning of each chapter.
Overall, this is a fairly quick and engaging read. I think this could be quite popular!
Thanks to Readers First for providing an ARC.
Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters was a fairly entertaining read. Pitched at older children or young adults, it's a fairly easy read set in a magical realm - although not too far away from London.
For those who love the Harry Potter books, I'm guessing you will also enjoy this tale. And as with the Harry Potter books, I wouldn't be surprised if this is the start of a new series.
With lots of magical creatures to discover, our plucky 12 year old Rayleigh is set on an adventure - both personally and physically.
Given that it's aimed at a younger audience, I still enjoyed this tale and it's absolutely perfect for October / Halloween reading.
The cover has a wonderful illustration and there are other smaller illustrations at the beginning of each chapter.
Overall, this is a fairly quick and engaging read. I think this could be quite popular!
Thanks to Readers First for providing an ARC.
September 30, 2023
Good fun with monsters and magic
I really enjoyed this book even though it’s intended for young adults. I immediately fell for the mischievous nature of the lead character, Rayleigh Mann. I loved the fact that the writer’s play on words meant that of course his dad was “Bogey” with a surname like Mann. The plot was fast and written in a very flowing way that will work well with the intended age group, which I assume is 11-14 year olds. From meeting mysterious strangers/ monsters to adventuring into new places the action never stops. The majority of the book is set in the world of fabled creatures situated under the streets of London. This is a premise that Neil Gaiman suggested in a Neverwhere, a similar novel but aimed at an adult audience. The book explores the positive strength of friendships, coping with new situations, and the passage of growth from various trials, very important to teenagers these days. No spoilers but I can’t wait for a follow up…
I really enjoyed this book even though it’s intended for young adults. I immediately fell for the mischievous nature of the lead character, Rayleigh Mann. I loved the fact that the writer’s play on words meant that of course his dad was “Bogey” with a surname like Mann. The plot was fast and written in a very flowing way that will work well with the intended age group, which I assume is 11-14 year olds. From meeting mysterious strangers/ monsters to adventuring into new places the action never stops. The majority of the book is set in the world of fabled creatures situated under the streets of London. This is a premise that Neil Gaiman suggested in a Neverwhere, a similar novel but aimed at an adult audience. The book explores the positive strength of friendships, coping with new situations, and the passage of growth from various trials, very important to teenagers these days. No spoilers but I can’t wait for a follow up…
October 17, 2023
It took me a little while to get into this book. Much like the Harry Potter series, the initial chapters set in the real world are somewhat tedious and the first introduction to the fantasy alternative world feels a bit rushed and confused. But once the reader arrives in Under-London proper, the story kicks into high gear and does a great job of balancing plot development, world building, & characters that are interesting without being overly trope-ish. Plus the pun game is fun as heck, even if it does pretty obviously telegraph current and future villains. I look forward to reading more of this series! Smart’s ability to craft a compelling world with interesting heroes has grown in leaps and bounds since her first full length novel (previously reviewed on this site). The character development and world building talent was always there, now she’s starting to nail the length and flow as well.
September 23, 2023
This book exceeded my expectations.
At first impression, partly due to the cover art, I judged this to be aimed at younger readers, maybe age 9-12, but on further reading I think this is the sort of book that adults / young adults could also read (Hunger Games, Harry Potter etc)
It’s got that darker elect appeal (the main character is the son of the Boogie Man) but uses lots of fun language in a fantasy world setting.
There are secret underworld societies, witches and monsters walking among us (“Monster is a label we’re trying to edge out…’Creature of the night is better”) and reeve at modern theme of the outsider feeing disconnected with their community surroundings and trying to find a place where they fit in, whilst discovering more about their family and inheritance.
Perfect for the misfit generation.
There’s definitely more to come from Rayleigh Mann’s universe
At first impression, partly due to the cover art, I judged this to be aimed at younger readers, maybe age 9-12, but on further reading I think this is the sort of book that adults / young adults could also read (Hunger Games, Harry Potter etc)
It’s got that darker elect appeal (the main character is the son of the Boogie Man) but uses lots of fun language in a fantasy world setting.
There are secret underworld societies, witches and monsters walking among us (“Monster is a label we’re trying to edge out…’Creature of the night is better”) and reeve at modern theme of the outsider feeing disconnected with their community surroundings and trying to find a place where they fit in, whilst discovering more about their family and inheritance.
Perfect for the misfit generation.
There’s definitely more to come from Rayleigh Mann’s universe
September 25, 2023
Another book which seems to have timed its publication to coincide with the run-up to Halloween, with some of the chapter titles such as All Tricks, No Treats sounding like they could be book titles themselves on the subject of All Hallows Eve.
Both the front cover and the use of intertextuality with the letter from Rayleigh's mother may indicate an emphasis on the "young" element of young adult reader, but when you take into consideration the central character Rayleigh (who is tasked with trying to find his father the Bogey Mann after a night out trick or treating doesn't go according to plan) as well as some of the turns of phrase - "for fright's sake" instead of the other FFS being one early example - and the twist of bad guys having to be forces for good there's enough edge to draw in adults/older young adults and keep them interested.
Both the front cover and the use of intertextuality with the letter from Rayleigh's mother may indicate an emphasis on the "young" element of young adult reader, but when you take into consideration the central character Rayleigh (who is tasked with trying to find his father the Bogey Mann after a night out trick or treating doesn't go according to plan) as well as some of the turns of phrase - "for fright's sake" instead of the other FFS being one early example - and the twist of bad guys having to be forces for good there's enough edge to draw in adults/older young adults and keep them interested.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2023
I have not read this author's work before but I loved this, and it definitely was beyond my expectations! This was an exciting read full of action, adventure and magic. I liked the incorporation of monsters in the story, and found this highly entertaining. It is written at a great pace and I am sure young children and teenagers will also enjoy this. On Halloween Rayleigh's life changes and he discovers a whole new world and creatures. He is taken underground to a world where monsters belong, and he begins his quest to search for his father, the bogeyman. This is creatively written and the characters are really interesting. It makes a great start to a fantastic series, and I hope to read more books that come beyond. I think Harry Potter fans and fans of fantasy/magic will enjoy this. Great read for this Halloween season, and the front cover is perfect for the target audience.
December 13, 2023
Rayleigh Mann is just a regular kid or so he believes, occasionally he strays into a bit of of trouble but nothing serious.
But on his twelfth Halloween much to his shock he meets a real, live monster who reveals his father is really The Bogey man.
Ultimate leader of a place called Belpw London.
But he has gone missing and the one best placed to find him is his son, Rayleigh.
He somehow has the key and skills to locating his father so with his uncle Thelonius and some other weird and wonderful sidekicks they journey to Below London to rescue The Bogey man.
But the Illustrious society doesn't want him rescued.
For them it's more convenient if Bogey isn't found.
Can Rayleigh and Thelonius thwart their evil plans?
Only time will tell.
A fun, quirky and spooky read.
Full of magical shenanigans and this would be a perfect Halloween read.
Great story.
But on his twelfth Halloween much to his shock he meets a real, live monster who reveals his father is really The Bogey man.
Ultimate leader of a place called Belpw London.
But he has gone missing and the one best placed to find him is his son, Rayleigh.
He somehow has the key and skills to locating his father so with his uncle Thelonius and some other weird and wonderful sidekicks they journey to Below London to rescue The Bogey man.
But the Illustrious society doesn't want him rescued.
For them it's more convenient if Bogey isn't found.
Can Rayleigh and Thelonius thwart their evil plans?
Only time will tell.
A fun, quirky and spooky read.
Full of magical shenanigans and this would be a perfect Halloween read.
Great story.
April 27, 2023
I received a free e-arc from NetGalley for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins!
4.5 stars
I hadn't read Ciannon Smart's work before this book, and now they've become an auto-buy for me. This world was so unique and felt so advanced in its development that I would've been satisfied to just walk the streets of Below-London. Instead, Smart shows us just how many secrets are lying in plain sight and it made for a fun, inclusive, and approachable middle-grade romp.
The only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me was some slight instances where the prose required a second or third read for me to understand the exact visual. However, that won't stop me from reaching for the next installment.
4.5 stars
I hadn't read Ciannon Smart's work before this book, and now they've become an auto-buy for me. This world was so unique and felt so advanced in its development that I would've been satisfied to just walk the streets of Below-London. Instead, Smart shows us just how many secrets are lying in plain sight and it made for a fun, inclusive, and approachable middle-grade romp.
The only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me was some slight instances where the prose required a second or third read for me to understand the exact visual. However, that won't stop me from reaching for the next installment.
September 28, 2023
Rayleigh Mann thinks he is just a normal kid, into the odd spot of trouble at times but this all changee.
For when he goes out trick or treating on his 12th Halloween he actually meets a real monster and finds out that his missing father is really The Bogey man, supreme leader of the world "Below London."
Not only that but he, Rayleigh is the one most likely to be holding the key to finding him.
Along with his uncle Thelonious and a whole host of other colourful characters he sets out to the Below world to rescue Bogey.
But a team called The illustrious society want Bogey out of the way and Rayleigh silenced forever...
This was a fun, spooky, fantasy tale and a great start to what I believe is a new series.
Perfect reading for spooky season.
For when he goes out trick or treating on his 12th Halloween he actually meets a real monster and finds out that his missing father is really The Bogey man, supreme leader of the world "Below London."
Not only that but he, Rayleigh is the one most likely to be holding the key to finding him.
Along with his uncle Thelonious and a whole host of other colourful characters he sets out to the Below world to rescue Bogey.
But a team called The illustrious society want Bogey out of the way and Rayleigh silenced forever...
This was a fun, spooky, fantasy tale and a great start to what I believe is a new series.
Perfect reading for spooky season.
November 3, 2023
This magical middle grade full of monsters just didn't grab my interest at all unfortunately.
I liked the friendships that formed, and it has a lot of fun elements to the magical trials.
With our Black main character being the son of the Bogey man, a well known Jamaican story, I was hoping for more of that cultural element to it. But the Bogey man is just a title any monster can have. Which is okay, but it means the main reason I went into this one for was null and void.
The world building was very heavy handed and felt exposition-y. It felt like reading a lecture on how the world worked rather than experiencing it with or through the character.
It mostly left me feeling bored and unengaged which isn't what you want from a fun magical MG book.
I liked the friendships that formed, and it has a lot of fun elements to the magical trials.
With our Black main character being the son of the Bogey man, a well known Jamaican story, I was hoping for more of that cultural element to it. But the Bogey man is just a title any monster can have. Which is okay, but it means the main reason I went into this one for was null and void.
The world building was very heavy handed and felt exposition-y. It felt like reading a lecture on how the world worked rather than experiencing it with or through the character.
It mostly left me feeling bored and unengaged which isn't what you want from a fun magical MG book.
December 19, 2023
Rayleigh Mann is just a regular kid, he has no idea though how special he is, for he is the son of The bogey man, ruler of Below London.
One year when he goes out trick or treating instead of just make believe ghouls and ghosts he meets a real monster.
One who tells him that his father Bogey is missing.
As his son, Rayleigh is the one they have turned to for help to find him.
He alone holds the key.
So he sets out to Below London with his eccentric uncle Thelonous and a gaggle of well meaning friends to search for his father and rescue him.
But a group called the Illustrious society don't want him to succeed for them and their plans it would be far better if Bogey were to disappear forever.
This was a fun read, perfect for Halloween or just autumn / winter spooky reading.
One year when he goes out trick or treating instead of just make believe ghouls and ghosts he meets a real monster.
One who tells him that his father Bogey is missing.
As his son, Rayleigh is the one they have turned to for help to find him.
He alone holds the key.
So he sets out to Below London with his eccentric uncle Thelonous and a gaggle of well meaning friends to search for his father and rescue him.
But a group called the Illustrious society don't want him to succeed for them and their plans it would be far better if Bogey were to disappear forever.
This was a fun read, perfect for Halloween or just autumn / winter spooky reading.
June 11, 2024
I wanted to like this book my daughter got from Owlcrate Jr. but I just really didn't. I read this to my daughter before bed each night and dreaded it. Something about the way it was written just didn't flow well at all for reading aloud. All the (constant) Mann jokes obviously fell flat if you're just listening to it. World building was all over the place, the magic system was confusing and nonsensical, and the author went HARD on the British slang. The last thing obviously isn't a problem for everyone but on top of everything else it just made this book such a chore to slog through. The 2 stars are because my daughter liked it. I wanted to quit after the first chapter. If another one is released I hope no one tells my daughter.
March 15, 2023
Thank you HarperCollins and Netgalley for the eARC, these opinions are my own. I really enjoyed this book. Rayleigh is on his way to meet his friends for Halloween but when the don't show he finds himself bothered by a girl who claims to have tied them up and when they are attacked by monsters, Rayleigh is taken to an underground world full of monsters and adventure. But with his father, the Bogey Man, missing can he find him before this magical world crumbles? A fast paced adventure, full of fun, mythical lore, and monsters! Rayleigh was a likable character with heart! Can't wait to read it again!
March 15, 2023
Thank you HarperCollins and Netgalley for the eARC, these opinions are my own. I really enjoyed this book. Rayleigh is on his way to meet his friends for Halloween but when the don't show he finds himself bothered by a girl who claims to have tied them up and when they are attacked by monsters, Rayleigh is taken to an underground world full of monsters and adventure. But with his father, the Bogey Man, missing can he find him before this magical world crumbles? A fast paced adventure, full of fun, mythical lore, and monsters! Rayleigh was a likable character with heart! Can't wait to read it again!
November 9, 2023
This seemed like a fairly interesting book but with the amount of British slang, there was no way I could read this with my daughter and have her understand it. I think the writing just wasn't for us either. As I was reading with her, I found myself updating the sentence structure to add more words, or slightly changing the order to have the sentences read better, at least in my case. I'm sure those who use the slang or terms in the book would love it, but it was very hard to read while having to look up the terms to understand what the book is trying to say. My daughter received this book through Owlcrate Jr, and this is the only one we are putting down without finishing.
January 20, 2023
NetGalley ARC Educator 550974
10, 10, 10s across the board. This book kept me hanging on the edge of my seat. This is Rayleigh's story. He's discovered a huge secret about his father's side of the family and the world's view of monsters is all skewed. Thank you for the diversity within this book.
Ms. Smart takes her time with the introduction to the world below as well as gives us insight into each character. Simply excellent and amazing. This is one of the best first in the series you will ever read. Fans of the Rick Riordan style books as well as Harry Potter will love this world.
10, 10, 10s across the board. This book kept me hanging on the edge of my seat. This is Rayleigh's story. He's discovered a huge secret about his father's side of the family and the world's view of monsters is all skewed. Thank you for the diversity within this book.
Ms. Smart takes her time with the introduction to the world below as well as gives us insight into each character. Simply excellent and amazing. This is one of the best first in the series you will ever read. Fans of the Rick Riordan style books as well as Harry Potter will love this world.
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