Monsters in the Moonlight

A Yalda Night Adventure

Illustrated by Sina Merabian

About The Book

Gustavo, the Shy Ghost meets How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by way of Persian myth in this sweet picture book about two young monsters who set out to make mischief in the human world during winter solstice celebrations.

On the darkest, coldest, and longest night of the year, twin divs Choori and Shooli are on a mission to wreak mischief and mayhem during a family’s Yalda Night. But no matter what they do, the family still manages to have their fun, and the little divs learn that the human spirit is hard to break—and that’s something worth celebrating.

About The Author

Photograph by Sina Merabian

Sina Merabian is an author-illustrator of picture books and longer work. Her work can be playful or macabre, and she enjoys the opportunity to work with intricate patterns and unique locales.

About The Illustrator

Photograph by Sina Merabian

Sina Merabian is an author-illustrator of picture books and longer work. Her work can be playful or macabre, and she enjoys the opportunity to work with intricate patterns and unique locales.

Why We Love It

“Sina Merabian’s art is stunning while always remaining kid-friendly and whimsical. Her folkloric explanation of Yalda will ignite kids’ imagination and curiosity.”

—Deeba Z., Senior Editor, on Monsters in the Moonlight

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (December 2, 2025)
  • Length: 40 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781534496859
  • Ages: 4 - 8

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Raves and Reviews

"A wonderful story of a Winter Solstice celebration from the Persian tradition. Those seeking to broaden their holiday collections will be well served to add this charming title to their shelves." —School Library Journal

"[Merabian's] gentle tale balances moments of mischief with good cheer, making for an enchanting holiday tale. Warmhearted." —Kirkus Reviews

Awards and Honors

  • Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Resources and Downloads

High Resolution Images

More books from this author: Sina Merabian

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