Tommy the Coward

Gr 3 Up–Thomas “Tommy” Anderson has been given the moniker “Tommy the Coward” by his classmates because he is scared of everything, including ladybugs and sunshine. Tommy’s parents go on a trip and leave him and his older siblings on their own for a few days, which makes him very nervous. While they are away, the trio of siblings ventures out into a nearby cave and end up in a mysterious realm called the Ravenous Woods, where monsters and their fears come to life around them. Tommy must find his lion-hearted bravery and overcome his cowardice or risk his siblings becoming forever trapped by the evil ruler of the Ravenous Woods. The adventurous, light horror plot mixed with the Tim Burton–esque illustrations will remind readers of Coraline, even down to the main character with yellow clothes and fun colored hair. The story’s emphasis on Tommy’s growth as both a character and a sibling makes this graphic great for younger readers. With a lighthearted ending, this book is primed to be enjoyed by older elementary and early middle grade readers. Tommy and his family are portrayed as white.