Description: Readers can create spooky Halloween props and accessories to use on their own or to add to a more complete costume with this how-to project book.
Brief description: Ruthie Van Oosbree is a writer and editor who loves making crafts. In her free time, she enjoys doing word puzzles, reading, and playing the piano. She lives with her husband and three cats in the Twin Cities.
Review Quotes: This collection of DIY Halloween accessories features 12 projects kids can make with upcycled materials like sunglasses, books, cardboard, headbands, and old shoes. The projects include masks made from cardboard or papier-mâché, or from sunglasses decorated with faux fur or pipe cleaners. Other projects include Monster Feet (Croc-style shoes covered in spray insulating foam), a Chilling Chain (made from a pool noodle cut into small links), several hats and headbands (including a Mad Hat made from playing cards and a Viking Helmet made from a cereal box and fabric), a Spooky Spell Book (made from an upcycled book), and a Ghoulish Glow Lantern (made from a bottle and battery-powered string lights). Most of the projects are presented in spreads, with step-by-step instructions accompanied by color photographs. Almost all of the projects involve the use of hot glue, and sometimes a craft knife, meaning they will probably require adult supervision and assistance. For the most part, the instructions are straightforward and seem fairly easy to follow, although some of them, like the Mad Hat, could have used a few additional photos to demonstrate the steps.VERDICT Although most of the projects may require adult assistance, this is a creative collection of DIY ideas that will appeal to kids looking for inexpensive, homemade ways to accessorize their Halloween costumes using common, upcycled materials.--Ashley Larsen "School Library Journal"