A creepy new story by Vikki VanSickle, Into the Goblin Market illustrated by Jensine Eckwall is inspired by the poem Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti (written in the 1800s)

Two sisters, one full of adventure, the other preferring to stay home, hear the cry of the Goblin Market as it comes to town. Millie warns Mina not to go, but as any good story will lead, she does not and it’s up to Millie to save the day.

Vikki VanSickle has nailed this incredible story, perfect for the upcoming autumn season. The lyrical text rolls off the tongue creating a sing-song rhythm that feels like all the best spooky songs. There is not a misstep to be found in the text making this a perfect story to share as a read aloud with a big group of readers. Dare I say, it also makes a perfect cuddle up story as well but choose your own adventure if you share it as a bedtime read.

I love that this story is a story of sisters and it’s the sister that would be considered mild and meek to be the one to save the day. What a wonderful reminder to readers that we can all be a hero in our stories regardless of our boldness and outward bravery. Just like Millie, we all have an inner bravery, especially when we are doing things for the people we love.

Jensine Eckwall’s illustrations are PERFECT! The black and white ink drawings punctuated by red highlights set the tone for the spooky story to come. I love that the illustrations are just scary enough, not too scary to turn off some readers. I love how there are lots of little moments in the illustrations that make readers come back to check it out over and over again, especially after the first reading. On subsequent readings, that’s when you can really dive into these incredible pictures.