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New Kirkus Review for Astound Illustrator Steph Lew!

Published on 18/09/2023

We are absolutely delighted by the recently published Kirkus Review of Kailei Pew’s “The Monster Above The Bed”, illustrated by Astound US Inc. artist, Steph Lew!

The review complimented Lew’s bright illustrations as joyous, creating a fantastical world that seems to defy our understanding of the world as a whole. Take a look at the interview here!

The book is described as fantastical, inquisitive, and joyful – a “welcome addition to the canon of books exploring this popular childhood fear…A fun look at monsters above and below the bed.” “The Monster Above The Bed” celebrates the unity of a friendship that defies fear and the bonds two very different children can make.

This vibrant book was written by the brilliant Kailei Pew and published by Clarion as well as HarperCollins.

The ITSme Society is a collective of top creative agencies that represent award-winning talent worldwide. The ITSme Society agencies represent illustrators and writers across 7 agencies: Advocate Art, Astound US Inc, Illo Agency, Artistique, Yeon, CWLA, and Collaborate.

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