There's A Monster In My House

As children, we all believe in monsters, but when we grow up, we tell ourselves they were never real, and that we only imagined them. But there are true monsters in the world. Disguising themselves as ordinary people, they take out their anger and frustration on children to make themselves feel strong and powerful.

So how can we tell the difference between actual people and the monsters?

This book tells a story of one family that welcomes someone into their home, thinking they are good and kind. The monster quickly gives itself away though, with its strange behaviour, which makes the child feel very uncomfortable.

Not respecting someone's personal space or privacy, encouraging children to keep secrets from others ... there are lots of warning signs to look out for, and this story describes them, teaching children exactly what to do if they find a monster in their house, or anywhere else, or even suspect that someone they have come into contact with might be one. And it reminds parents, teachers, and anyone one else who cares about protecting children to always listen, believe, and do whatever they can to help.

Note to parents and guardians: Though very important, this book contains subject matter that young children might find disturbing or frightening. Please exercise caution and sensitivity when introducing to younger children.

As a teacher of children with special needs and a survivor of childhood abuse herself, D E-Collen knows the importance of protecting children from abuse and teaching children about their own human rights, including the right to protect themselves. With this book, There's a Monster in My House: A Book About Children's Human Rights, she hopes to educate children and adults alike on how to address and deal with any sort of threat to a child's well-being―knowledge that she dearly hopes will make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children in order to protect them from potential abuse.

D E-Collen currently lives in Oakville, Canada, with her husband and their dog, Oliver. She has two adult children.