BEVERLEY, BAT YOUR SERVICE

An eager bat finally gets the chance to host guests at his dilapidated home.

Beverley loves entertaining company. Sadly, no one ever comes over. Beverley can’t understand it. The wallpaper is peeling, the roof has holes, and cobwebs are everywhere…why won’t anyone visit?! But one rainy afternoon, Beverley hears a commotion downstairs. Guests have arrived! And not just any guests. “PEOPLE GUESTS!” (A “sold” sign by the house and the many suitcases the newcomers bring will clue readers in: It’s move-in day for this hapless family.) Beverley can hardly contain his excitement. To make them feel at home, he writes a cheery message in drippy red paint on the mirror: “WELCOME / STAY FOREVER.” He sprays “Eau de Rotten Eggs” (Grandma’s favorite scent). And to make their stay complete, he whips up “millipede Bolognese”—with a worm soufflé for dessert, of course. Beverley’s brand of hospitality isn’t quite what the humans had in mind. Convinced they’ve moved into a haunted house, the two adults and one youngster (plus the dog) look increasingly horrified as the day goes on, but the other kiddo wears a huge smile. Beverley has managed to impress one guest! The delightfully creepy, not-so-spooky house sets the mood, with many tiny details to pore over. Full-page spreads are mixed with vignettes, featuring jagged speech bubble screams (not from joy). The family is light-skinned.

A quirky look at the fine line between caring and scaring.