Book excerpt: Monsters, monsters, everywhere! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!In this third book in the series, Alexander goes up against shadow smashers. These monsters jump from shadow to shadow, causing problems all over town! Meanwhile, a member of Alexander's Super Secret Monster Patrol (SSMP) may turn out to BE a monster! Fun black-and-white illustrations bring the action to life throughout.