Vlad is Mad!
It’s no secret that I love vampire books. For the last year or so, I’ve even been working on a picture book duology feature a little vampire and her dad. You’ve heard me rave about Lisa Anchin’s Maud and the Very Eventful Week. I’ve posted about Colin’s Castle and Colin’s Grandma on my IG and stories (review forthcoming for Colin’s Grandma). We’ve done Midnight Sun read-alongs. And when we got the notice from Su Moon that she was available for our Bookdragon pop-up even this Sunday, I was, well over the MOON. ;D
Su Moon’s debut picture book VLAD IS MAD! is about a vampire kid who is a little too full of emotions. He’s not just mad, he’s MAD. And he’s not sure what to do about it. Enter his patient dad who talks him through it.
Here’s the summary:
“A grumpy little vampire learns how to manage his big feelings–with some help from dad. The ideal gift for spooky season, this is also for fans of the Grumpy Monkey series.
Vlad may be a little vampire, but he has big feelings.
And Vlad is MAD!
He’s chasing the cats. He’s gone fruit-bats!
His friends are trying to stay out of his way, but luckily dad knows what to do.
Sometimes, even a vampire needs to stop and take a breath.”
And, here’s the thing: Vlad is Mad! isn’t just a teaching tool kind of story. The illustrations are crazy cute, the kittens throughout are adorable and quirky, and Vlad is an endearing little vampire. Relatable but also a good picture book to read out loud to your kids. And a RHYMING picture book that actually works!
Plus, I don’t think this book is JUST for spooky season, but all year long. It’s reminscent of Karen Katz’ class lift-the-flap book with more storytelling and more vamps.
We are so honored to have Su Moon with us this Sunday, September 27 at 1pm for storytime plus a drawing demonstration. Come join us and get your very own copy of Vlad is Mad!.
***Bookdragon Bookstore Pop-up Event will be on Sept 27, 2026 from 11am-5pm at Cottage Industries, 12934 8th St., Garden Grove, Ca 92840. Parking located on 8th and 9th St, with additional lots on 7th St and Civic Center.
