The Wump

By: Tony DiTerlizzi

Narrated by: Jack Dylan Grazer

From the co-creator of the #1 New York Times bestselling Spiderwick Chronicles series comes a deliciously dark supernatural middle-grade coming-of-age story.

“Terrifyingly terrific.”—Jeff Kinney, New York Times bestselling creator of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series

Timothy’s grandpa has a saying: the best way to deal with bullies is to wump ‘em. But Timothy would never hurt a fly—and not just because he genuinely loves bugs. He’s always been a good kid…until a shadowy monster appears and begins feeding on his darkest thoughts. Facing bullies both at home and at school, Timothy cocoons himself in the monster’s shadows, where he is consumed by a desire for revenge. But how much of himself can Timothy give up before he is completely transformed?

Award-winning author-illustrator Tony DiTerlizzi stuns in this creepy, poignant reflection of the darkness—and light—inside of all of us.

Critic reviews

“Terrifyingly terrific—The Wump is perfect flashlight reading for middle schoolers!”—Jeff Kinney, New York Times bestselling creator of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series

“I’ve been looking forward to this book for years, and it delivers—darkly funny, heartfelt, and unforgettable.”—Holly Black, author of Doll Bones (a Newbery Honor book), and cocreator of The Spiderwick Chronicles series

“A monster comes out of the shadows—and it’s not what you think it is! Many twists, many shocks, many surprises. And the book is crawling with bugs! Look out!” –R.L. Stine, author of the Goosebumps and Fear Street Series

"Readers are as likely to be thrilled by the jagged, shadowy, truly terrifying Wump as by the sweet, sweet revenge it goes on to exact. . . . DiTerlizzi's expertly crafted grayscale illustrations with pops of bright green are a highlight."—Kirkus

“A deliciously supernatural tale sure to delight not just fans of the Spiderwick Chronicles series; readers will see there’s a bit of a Wump in most of us, and it just may come out if emotions aren’t managed.” —School Library Journal

"Through Tim’s increasingly self-assured narration, the novel portrays relatable kid concerns around belonging and self-acceptance. Stylized b&w illustrations with neon green accents enhance the ominous atmosphere. The result is a creepy, provocative story about coping with adolescent turmoil." —Publishers Weekly

“A haunting and heartfelt coming-of-age tale that refuses to shy away from the sorrow and uncertainty of leaving childhood behind, while also celebrating the messy, marvelous process of growing into oneself.” —Booklist