School Library Journal Review
Gr 4--6--Like many horror films, Regina's middle grade graphic novel, a touching meditation on the loss of a caregiver, explores grief that grows monstrous. Matt and Judy are thrown into confusion when their longtime nanny Ruby dies. Their mom, in danger of losing her job, hastily hires Miss Swan, a taciturn, dark-haired nanny who raises Matt's suspicions when an unkindness of ravens arrive with her. Matt's search to uncover the mystery of Miss Swan's identity is mixed with tender memories of Ruby and comedic commentary from Matt's horror flick--loving friends, who are in attendance at the titular sleepover. The story builds to a cinematic chase that checks the spooky boxes: a cabin in the woods, a murky lake, and a historical tragedy, to name a few--it's familiar territory but suitably scary nonetheless. Regina's art is reminiscent of Matt Kindt's--flat yet emotive, with shadowy earth tones setting a dark mood. Ruby is an older Black woman, and the children and Miss Swan are white. VERDICT This graphic novel offers spooky entertainment and a serious message, and though it doesn't perfectly meld the two, both prove compelling themes.--Emilia Packard, Tokyo
Booklist Review
After the sudden death of their beloved nanny, Ruby, Matthew and his little sister, Judy, struggle with grief in their own ways. Matthew has an especially hard time and gets upset when his mother, needing to return to her night job, hires a new nanny. Enter Miss Swan. While Judy gets along well with Miss Swan, Matthew suspects her of being the witch rumored to live in the woods behind his house. On their first night together, Matthew's three best friends come over for a sleepover, and he quickly wins them over to his witchy way of thinking--but not before Miss Swan begins exacting her vengeance for an age-old tragedy. The kids, all geared up to fight a supernatural being, bring a Stranger Things vibe to the action-packed story. Shadowy art ominously peppered with crows and cut with flashlight beams creates an eerie atmosphere, and sepia flashbacks provide important backstory elements to the narrative. Though the story holds no real surprises, kids after a spooky, backyard adventure will find plenty to enjoy.