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Bartholomew Buggins: A Zombie with Different Cravings
A humorous rhyming picture book for ages 4 and up features a distinguished little zombie who just wants to be your friend.
Dive head-first into the infectiously charming pages, oozing with whimsical verse and stricken with colorful and amusing illustrations. Bartholomew Buggins: A Zombie with Different Cravings is a unique, fun book that will have kids and adults shrieking with delight.
2018 Florida Book Festival, Honorable Mention in the Children's Category
2017 Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards, Winner Best Books in the Children's Category
2017 Northern California Book Festival, Honorable Mention in the Children's Category
2017 Southern California Book Festival, Honorable Mention in the Children's Category
2017 Halloween Book Festival, Runner-Up in the Children's Category
Dive head-first into the infectiously charming pages, oozing with whimsical verse and stricken with colorful and amusing illustrations. Bartholomew Buggins: A Zombie with Different Cravings is a unique, fun book that will have kids and adults shrieking with delight.
2018 Florida Book Festival, Honorable Mention in the Children's Category
2017 Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards, Winner Best Books in the Children's Category
2017 Northern California Book Festival, Honorable Mention in the Children's Category
2017 Southern California Book Festival, Honorable Mention in the Children's Category
2017 Halloween Book Festival, Runner-Up in the Children's Category
32 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2017
19 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
About the author
Crystal Marcos
4books884followersAward-winning author Crystal Marcos has been a storyteller her entire life. As the oldest of five children, she had to do a lot of entertaining. She lives on the Kitsap Peninsula in Washington State with her husband, daughter Kaylee, and son Jaxon. Crystal is the author of BELLYACHE: A Delicious Tale, HEADACHE: The Hair-Raising Sequel to BELLYACHE, and Novus: Book One of The Cresecren Chronicles. Bartholomew Buggins is her first children's picture book.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
June 6, 2017
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. I also consider the author one of my ϻӮ friends so whenever I read one of her books I feel anxiety that I might not like it and I was anxious about this one because I do not like zombies. At all. Ever. I’d told her that but she reassured me that I might be fine with this book, and she was right, and I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
This is so cute. It’s sweet and very amusing. I was pleasantly surprised by how funny it was (text and pictures) and I was smiling and sometimes chuckling most of the way through the story. I appreciate the mix of adorable and creepy and funny.
This book begs to be read multiple times. The short rhyming story is great and I wanted to read it through without interruption (which I did during my second reading.) There are so many details in the illustrations to look at on every page that I needed to read/view them together and separately too so I could notice all the fun details.
I especially recommend this for reading aloud to one child or a group of children. I actually think this is a perfect read aloud book. I think it’s best if listeners can listen to the story rhyme uninterrupted while simultaneously looking at the pictures on the page. I think that young children will love the vibrant illustrations and get a kick out of the story. I also highly recommend this to slightly older children who are independent readers because they will get so much out of the many details in the illustrations, including their text parts. They can read and peruse the illustrations at their own pace, and can probably better appreciate some of the humor.
When I first saw the art, even though I liked the colorfulness, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy the art style. The pictures fit the rhyme so well though I started really liking them. They befit the story perfectly, right down to mood and tone. I ended up enjoying the illustrations the more I viewed them. Colorful, whimsical, downright funny, and cute, and creepy too, at least for me.
I appreciated the mentions and illustrations of the cat, tree growing, mint tea, writing poems, and especially reading a book, and so much else too.
I love how a talented sisters team created this book. I appreciated how the author explains at the start why this story was told and then written. It could actually make a fun and helpful bibliotherapy book for fearful kids, at least ones who are scared of zombies, or maybe generic monsters. It will also be a winner with kids who love zombies and monsters and potentially scary topics.
I love the highly entertaining, illustrated “about the author” “about the illustrator” page in the back.
There is an interactive question in the back so kids can go back and participate in a search. There is additional content at a website page for the book. () I’ve added it to the book’s information page. I took a quick peak and think it’s a great additional perk for readers of the book.
I read the book several times and liked it better and better with each reading. If other adults feel that way it will be a pleasant book for parents and teachers and librarians to read over & over & over again to children, and since children sometimes want multiple readings of the same book that’s a big deal.
Unfortunately, most libraries won’t offer this because it’s independently published. Any local people with kids they think might have interest are welcome to borrow my copy to see if it’s one you want for your home library or even just to read to your kids. Just email me or message me and ask.
4-1/2 stars
This is so cute. It’s sweet and very amusing. I was pleasantly surprised by how funny it was (text and pictures) and I was smiling and sometimes chuckling most of the way through the story. I appreciate the mix of adorable and creepy and funny.
This book begs to be read multiple times. The short rhyming story is great and I wanted to read it through without interruption (which I did during my second reading.) There are so many details in the illustrations to look at on every page that I needed to read/view them together and separately too so I could notice all the fun details.
I especially recommend this for reading aloud to one child or a group of children. I actually think this is a perfect read aloud book. I think it’s best if listeners can listen to the story rhyme uninterrupted while simultaneously looking at the pictures on the page. I think that young children will love the vibrant illustrations and get a kick out of the story. I also highly recommend this to slightly older children who are independent readers because they will get so much out of the many details in the illustrations, including their text parts. They can read and peruse the illustrations at their own pace, and can probably better appreciate some of the humor.
When I first saw the art, even though I liked the colorfulness, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy the art style. The pictures fit the rhyme so well though I started really liking them. They befit the story perfectly, right down to mood and tone. I ended up enjoying the illustrations the more I viewed them. Colorful, whimsical, downright funny, and cute, and creepy too, at least for me.
I appreciated the mentions and illustrations of the cat, tree growing, mint tea, writing poems, and especially reading a book, and so much else too.
I love how a talented sisters team created this book. I appreciated how the author explains at the start why this story was told and then written. It could actually make a fun and helpful bibliotherapy book for fearful kids, at least ones who are scared of zombies, or maybe generic monsters. It will also be a winner with kids who love zombies and monsters and potentially scary topics.
I love the highly entertaining, illustrated “about the author” “about the illustrator” page in the back.
There is an interactive question in the back so kids can go back and participate in a search. There is additional content at a website page for the book. () I’ve added it to the book’s information page. I took a quick peak and think it’s a great additional perk for readers of the book.
I read the book several times and liked it better and better with each reading. If other adults feel that way it will be a pleasant book for parents and teachers and librarians to read over & over & over again to children, and since children sometimes want multiple readings of the same book that’s a big deal.
Unfortunately, most libraries won’t offer this because it’s independently published. Any local people with kids they think might have interest are welcome to borrow my copy to see if it’s one you want for your home library or even just to read to your kids. Just email me or message me and ask.
4-1/2 stars
March 29, 2018
You can’t go anywhere without seeing zombie books, posters, cartoons, television shows and movies. Even children as young as four know what a zombie is. Meet Bartholomew Buggins, your everyday kid-friendly zombie. He doesn’t want to eat your brains but love bakery items like cakes and cookies. He’s a kind, studious sort and he’d like nothing better than to be your friend.
What a fantastic book! I loved how the rhyming text fit perfectly with each illustration and how the text was on the bottom of each page. I found myself staring with wonder on all that was going on in each illustration. There’s an interactive game for kids on the Kindle version and more activities on Marcos’ website.
There’s a good message hidden beneath the humorous zombie tale. It’s about accepting others, friendship and not judging other people.
Not since Dr. Seuss have I read such a delightful children’s picture book. I highly recommend, especially this close to Halloween.
Favorite Character/Quote: “I am a distinguished young fellow. Unlike other zombies, I’m mellow. Those monsters are really quite loud so it’s hard to fit in with that crowd.”
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared:
What a fantastic book! I loved how the rhyming text fit perfectly with each illustration and how the text was on the bottom of each page. I found myself staring with wonder on all that was going on in each illustration. There’s an interactive game for kids on the Kindle version and more activities on Marcos’ website.
There’s a good message hidden beneath the humorous zombie tale. It’s about accepting others, friendship and not judging other people.
Not since Dr. Seuss have I read such a delightful children’s picture book. I highly recommend, especially this close to Halloween.
Favorite Character/Quote: “I am a distinguished young fellow. Unlike other zombies, I’m mellow. Those monsters are really quite loud so it’s hard to fit in with that crowd.”
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared:
June 5, 2017
I would like to start by saying this was a gift sent to me and my son and since its for kids I will be evaluating it as a read and reviewer and as a parent. I will include my child's reactions as well.
Okay I will start by saying it is adorable. My child has started seeing things on TV, commercials for shows like Izombie or Dawn of the Dead and such. We do not let him watch the shows but you cannot stop the media and he always asks a million questions. This was a cute and age appropriate way to help answer them. Being 4 they are not let go until answered. His reaction to the first reading was intense concentration. He absorbed every word and I even heard him repeat some of the rhymes (rhymes are great kids love them). After he took the book and started finding all the animals hidden in it while reading it to himself over and over. He loves it. As an adult I likely cannot appreciate it in the same way a child can but it had him engaged which is wonderful and I was not bored reading it (which lets face it is hard to do when reading books for little kids) so overall I rate this an amazing success!
Okay I will start by saying it is adorable. My child has started seeing things on TV, commercials for shows like Izombie or Dawn of the Dead and such. We do not let him watch the shows but you cannot stop the media and he always asks a million questions. This was a cute and age appropriate way to help answer them. Being 4 they are not let go until answered. His reaction to the first reading was intense concentration. He absorbed every word and I even heard him repeat some of the rhymes (rhymes are great kids love them). After he took the book and started finding all the animals hidden in it while reading it to himself over and over. He loves it. As an adult I likely cannot appreciate it in the same way a child can but it had him engaged which is wonderful and I was not bored reading it (which lets face it is hard to do when reading books for little kids) so overall I rate this an amazing success!
December 12, 2017
Never judge a zombie by what he eats, he only wants tasty treats.
June 14, 2017
Bartholomew Buggins: A Zombie with Different Cravings is a delightful children’s book that will leave your children wanting more! Bartholomew is a zombie; a young, fun and quiet zombie who demonstrates the skills and focused attention that parents encourage intheir children. He studies, he plays, he’s quiet, friendly and non-threatening.
The prose is smooth, easy to follow, rhymes cleverly – not forced. The rhythm of the rhyming flows easily. Crystal Marcos has laid the story out in a clever manner, making the story relatable and genuine. Given today’s interest in zombies and the walking dead, Ms. Marcos has created a character that small children (and their parents) will love and never fear! It also teaches them good behavior (no rowdiness or bad manners), being studious, everyone is different and being kind. All attributes we want to see in our children.
In a team effort, Marie Marcos has illustrated the story of Bartholomew Buggins with cute and attractive artwork with hidden “eggs” throughout the story. Marie’s artwork brings the story to life making the team work of both Crystal and Marie Marcos a brilliant collaboration accomplishment.
Over the weekend, I read the story of Bartholomew Buggins to two of my small grandchildren – a granddaughter who is two and her brother who is four. They sat and listened to the story and looked at the artwork – combining the vivid imagery with smooth rhyme and they were bewitched! They kept touching the pages fascinated with the artwork. The children kept returning to the book, wanting to hear and see it again and again.
This book is a piece of magic! Any book that can take two overly active children and hold their attention for any period of time is impressive. I personally found the rhyme charming and fun. The artwork was also stunning. The combination of the two created an outstanding piece of reading and visual pleasure.
WordsAPlenty gives this book a well-deserved five-star rating for its combined effectiveness as well as its whimsical verse and amazing artwork.
The prose is smooth, easy to follow, rhymes cleverly – not forced. The rhythm of the rhyming flows easily. Crystal Marcos has laid the story out in a clever manner, making the story relatable and genuine. Given today’s interest in zombies and the walking dead, Ms. Marcos has created a character that small children (and their parents) will love and never fear! It also teaches them good behavior (no rowdiness or bad manners), being studious, everyone is different and being kind. All attributes we want to see in our children.
In a team effort, Marie Marcos has illustrated the story of Bartholomew Buggins with cute and attractive artwork with hidden “eggs” throughout the story. Marie’s artwork brings the story to life making the team work of both Crystal and Marie Marcos a brilliant collaboration accomplishment.
Over the weekend, I read the story of Bartholomew Buggins to two of my small grandchildren – a granddaughter who is two and her brother who is four. They sat and listened to the story and looked at the artwork – combining the vivid imagery with smooth rhyme and they were bewitched! They kept touching the pages fascinated with the artwork. The children kept returning to the book, wanting to hear and see it again and again.
This book is a piece of magic! Any book that can take two overly active children and hold their attention for any period of time is impressive. I personally found the rhyme charming and fun. The artwork was also stunning. The combination of the two created an outstanding piece of reading and visual pleasure.
WordsAPlenty gives this book a well-deserved five-star rating for its combined effectiveness as well as its whimsical verse and amazing artwork.
December 8, 2017
Bartholomew Buggins is a charming tale about an unusual zombie who enjoys being different.
Bartholomew is a happy go lucky zombie who likes feasting on cakes, reciting poetry, and planting trees. Not at all what you'd expect from a zombie.
Children will delight in the colorful and detailed illustrations and laugh as people flee in fear from the gentle and kind zombie. Readers are kept engaged as they search for hidden brains and other items throughout the pages.
This entertaining story is told in whimsical rhyme, which is my favorite type of children's book. Stories told in rhyme benefit children in so many ways. Rhyme helps to improve oral language and to develop reading and writing skills plus they're just fun to read!
I highly recommend picking up a copy of Bartholomew Buggins.
Bartholomew is a happy go lucky zombie who likes feasting on cakes, reciting poetry, and planting trees. Not at all what you'd expect from a zombie.
Children will delight in the colorful and detailed illustrations and laugh as people flee in fear from the gentle and kind zombie. Readers are kept engaged as they search for hidden brains and other items throughout the pages.
This entertaining story is told in whimsical rhyme, which is my favorite type of children's book. Stories told in rhyme benefit children in so many ways. Rhyme helps to improve oral language and to develop reading and writing skills plus they're just fun to read!
I highly recommend picking up a copy of Bartholomew Buggins.
September 30, 2019
This is a wonderful rhyming book full of bright cheery illustrations about a zombie who would rather eat cake and cookies than brains.
This is the tale, or story, of Bartholomew who is not interested in your brains he would rather try and be friends. He would rather have sprinkled than wrinkles(brains are wrinkly.). Most zombies are loud, but Bartholomew is quite mellow. Listening/reading this storybook will help you decide if you would like him as your friend. (I read the whole book. I think I would like him as a friend, I hope you do too.)
I borrowed this book on a Kindle Unlimited website and so can you.
This is the tale, or story, of Bartholomew who is not interested in your brains he would rather try and be friends. He would rather have sprinkled than wrinkles(brains are wrinkly.). Most zombies are loud, but Bartholomew is quite mellow. Listening/reading this storybook will help you decide if you would like him as your friend. (I read the whole book. I think I would like him as a friend, I hope you do too.)
I borrowed this book on a Kindle Unlimited website and so can you.
May 10, 2017
This book is so incredible i love every page of it the author of it is so talented!!
April 15, 2018
Good
My 4 year old nephew loves being read to. He chose this book based on the cover. He loved it. I can't wait to start helping him learn to read these on his own. Love it.
My 4 year old nephew loves being read to. He chose this book based on the cover. He loved it. I can't wait to start helping him learn to read these on his own. Love it.
December 26, 2019
Cute
Such a cute book and I love that it rhymes!
my daughter is only 11 months old and she paid attention while I read !
Such a cute book and I love that it rhymes!
my daughter is only 11 months old and she paid attention while I read !
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