Book excerpt: For generations, people have been afraid of monsters and things that they don't understand. "Monsters Aren't Scary" was created to help children overcome their fears and realize that the even those things that they are afraid of, aren't so scary.This book was written for BJ's 5 year old son who was having severe nightmares, daily. Nothing seemed to help. One night, BJ woke up from a dream and immediately starting jotting down ideas that would eventually be the first draft of this book. Within days of reading this "draft" to his son, the nightmares stopped and instead that little boy giggled and begged to hear more and more about these AMAZING monster's and all of their adventures. The nightmares never returned. "Monsters Aren't Scary" captivates the attention of all readers, while giving guidance to those who may need help learning to deal with the fear of darkness and the unknown. It honors a message of acceptance, hope and humanity. It speaks to the core of us all, and simplifies the meaning behind true tolerance. This book is a key instrument in guiding conversations that help parents understand how to alleviate fear of the unknown. The clear message of acceptance, hope, and humanity flow throughout each page; while modeling how to pull down the strongholds that attach to humanity through intolerance. A must read for anyone dealing with a child who is scared of the dark as well as educators around the world who want to assist in cultivating a healthy acceptance of all humanity. From readers: Written to help alleviate his young son's nightmares, BJ Prior's Monsters Aren't Scary, is a cute story that introduces us to the real monsters behind the traditionally scary legends. From witches to Dracula to Frankenstein's Monster, these scary monsters become relatable, approachable, funny and, as the title says, NOT SCARY! The graphic novel quality illustrations give the story strength as Prior's rhyming prose introduces us to each monster, first as the scary myth, then as the funny, quirky, 'just like us' character. By the end of this book my children and I were fans of both monsters and Prior - looking forward to his next book.Laura Rossmurphy, MA, LPCI first met BJ Prior the author of "Monsters Aren't Scary" when his daughter joined my Girl Scout troop. I first read and saw the book at their lovely home. I absolutely adored the book as did my 7 year old daughter. The context of the book was fun for the whole family. Not only did it shine a fun twist on the scary feelings of going to bed and the unknown but also teaches the kids a valuable lesson about being inclusive. Bj was so gracious about doing a live author meet and great with the kids. Every single Girl Scout loved his book and the author. He was so passionate about the inspiration behind his book his son and the message it carries to our children. I highly recommend this book to kids of all ages. It's a must read and must have in your home. Makes a wonderful gift for loved ones as well. Jocelyn Van Haren