Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

There’s A Stinky Goblin In The Shed is a children’s book written by Andrea Kaczmarek and illustrated by Eva Künzel. During a stay at their grandmother’s house, twins Jacob and Jerry happen upon a crying goblin in the forest. The lost goblin, named Hob, recalls his last moments before arriving where the twins found him, depressed, dazed and confused. Giving him both food and shelter, the twins quickly find that it takes every bit of patience and more to keep Hob entertained. As Jacob and Jerry do all they can to try to help the goblin return to his home, a whirlwind of havoc and destruction takes place, as their gran’s shed, garden and more are demolished by the very smelly, bored and mischievous critter. Not only that, but the neighbors (and Gran) believe, from the noxious smell, that a skunk is lurking nearby. With an elf’s shoe in their possession, a plan is set in motion to return Hob to his family in Goblin Land.

Andrea Kaczmarek’s humorous tale of a goblin’s mischievous antics, which have led him to be lost and alone, creates quite an adventure for younger readers. Extending their helpful hand in friendship, the twins do all they can to help a lost goblin find his way back home, while entertaining him with board games, at night. I loved both the writing style and the accompanying illustrations, each portraying the different ways the twins tried so valiantly to keep the goblin entertained and amused. Everything it laid eyes on, whether edible or not, was perceived as being food, much to the boys’ dismay. Throughout the story, clues are discovered regarding the goblin’s mysterious appearance, and it is up to the twins to find the missing key to sending him back to his family (and incredibly bizarre lifestyle). I enjoyed reading There’s A Stinky Goblin In The Shed, and recommend it to young readers, who would not only learn the benefits of lending a helping hand to a friend in need, but also enjoy a jolly good laugh along the way.