Vampirita and the Angry Mob

Gr 1-3–Moving can be tough for anyone, even vampires. Vampirita and her mom, Vamparo, both depicted in dark eye makeup and purple capes, have moved from the gray skies of Lima, Peru, to the fictional Sunny City. Mama implores Vampirita to remember to blend in, be friendly, and keep their vampire identities secret. But Vampirita dislikes her new saccharine community, and attempts to sabotage their stay by revealing their secret, hoping the neighbors will run them out of town. In the end, her ploys are met with friendly enthusiasm, particularly from her neighbors Molly and August. Digital illustrations are featured throughout and capture Vampirita’s endearing surliness, while a bright palette contrasts with the spooky elements. Llanos reinvents vampire lore to suit younger readers—Vampirita and Mama can be in the sun if they wear sunscreen, and their diet includes “crickets and worm sauce” empanadas and toast with hormiga (ant) marmalade. The English edition features Spanish words that are translated in an appended glossary. The humor and realistic themes of homesickness and representation of a blended family makes this worthy beyond Halloween season.