Literary Executive Review: Norma Fleagane, “sneaky The Hairy Mountain Monster Goes To Church”
by ReadersMagnet | December 11, 2025 | Literary Executive Review | 0 Comments
Norma Fleagane’s Sneaky the Hairy Mountain Monster Goes to Church is a joyful read from start to finish. The story moves smoothly from page to page, and while the Kindle version is perfectly enjoyable, the printed book is certainly an even richer experience with its vibrant layout and playful illustrations.
The narrative follows Blake James during a summer visit to his grandparents in West Virginia. On a bright, sunny day, Blake, his mother, and his grandparents journey to a quaint country church. Inside, Blake notices an unusual smell and quietly alerts his grandfather that someone has “passed gas.” Their shared amusement leads them outdoors, where an unexpected discovery reveals the true source of the odor.
This lighthearted episode is charmingly humorous, blending curiosity, surprise, and adventure. It captures the essence of childhood – those small, mischievous, and unforgettable moments spent with family.
Visual Appeal & Illustrations
The book cover of Sneaky the Hairy Mountain Monster Goes to Church immediately communicates its tone. The cartoon-style illustration by Jasmine Mills is inviting and clearly aimed at children, featuring soft lines and clear expressions. Blake and his grandfather’s slightly curious faces convey a mix of humor and bond, perfectly matching the story’s mood.
Sneaky, the monster, is partially hidden in the background, teasing readers with a hint of mystery. Who is he? What is he up to? This subtle exposure sparks curiosity while keeping the story approachable.
The background is equally well-designed. The white church with its steeple and cross provides a straightforward visual anchor, suggesting themes of faith and community. Surrounding trees and earthy tones – greens, browns, and whites – create a calm, grounded atmosphere. The title is bold, playful, and slightly uneven, perfectly matching the whimsical monster theme.
Inside, Mills’ additional illustrations are eye-catching. Forest scenes are rendered in a soft, natural palette, which looks beautiful, especially for readers who like watercolor paintings. Meanwhile, the characters are rendered in a semi-realistic style, with lively, humorous expressions that retain a playful, cartoon-like charm.
The character design of Sneaky is also worth complimenting. He is charming in his own way, so that perhaps, little readers would not need much time getting comfortable with him. Though brown and huge, his seemingly sad demeanor makes him look gentle, while his oversized form and antics ensure amusement.
Prose, Humor, and Heart
Norma Fleagane’s prose is a true delight. It’s all at once warm and effortlessly engaging. She has a gift for balancing lighthearted comedy with tender moments, creating a story that appeals to both children and adults.
The storyline itself is a gem. It’s meaningful – something that will help broaden young ones’ perspectives without being a challenging story. Additionally, Fleagane successfully created characters that resonate with readers. Here, we have a silly, curious kid, a wise (and equally playful) grandfather, and Sneaky, the hairy monster whose depth goes beyond his appearance.
It also deserves mention that the scenes evoke nostalgia in readers, especially adults. The evenings on the veranda, with fireflies flickering in the warm summer air, and listening to grandparent stories evoke fond memories. These are relatable to anyone who has experienced the joy of multigenerational family bonds, making the story resonate on a personal level.
Fleagane’s humor is clever and playful, too. It never feels forced; it grows naturally from character interactions and situational context.
Young readers will giggle at Blake and his grandfather’s conversations, while adults can appreciate the situational comedy. Sneaky’s awkward attempts to fit into human settings are simultaneously endearing.
Beneath the playful surface, Fleagane weaves in thoughtful reflections on belonging, acceptance, and faith. The church is not just a backdrop. It is a character in its own right. It is where connection, understanding, and community are illustrated with subtlety and warmth.
Sneaky’s desire to participate, to be welcomed despite his monstrous appearance, highlights a universal theme: everyone longs to be seen and valued. By placing a fantastical and frightening creature within a sacred setting, the story explores empathy, inclusion, and spiritual belonging. Children are introduced to these concepts in a natural, non-preachy way, while adults can surely appreciate the deeper moral undertones.
Final Thoughts
This review could not end without mentioning the conclusion. To be brief, it was uplifting. Fleagane closes the story in a way that readers close the book with a warm, lingering smile.
Sneaky is far more than a source of comic relief. His red tie and cautious curiosity make him a character ripe for meaningful discussion between children and their caregivers. He embodies lessons about empathy, acceptance, and solitude, among others. And these insights can reach all ages.
Overall, Fleagane’s writing is a wonderful blend of humor, emotion, and imagination. It showcases the small, beautiful moments that make childhood – and life – so worth living for.
Sneaky The Hairy Mountain Monster Goes To Church is available in paperback, hardcover, and eBook on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
