Why We Still Need Monsters: Lessons from Loch Ness, Megamonster, and The Water Horse

Discover how beloved children’s books like Megamonster and The Water Horse, and the new adventure The Lamb Gang Save the Loch Ness Monster, help kids face fears, build courage, and believe in the magic of the unknown.

When you think of a “monster,” what comes to mind, something scary? Mischievous? Mysterious? In children’s books, monsters often do more than just lurk in the dark. They help us face our fears, question what’s real, and celebrate courage in the face of the unknown.

From David Walliams’ Megamonster to Dick King-Smith’s classic The Water Horse, young readers have long been fascinated by creatures that stretch the imagination, and the heart.

Monsters That Make Us Brave

In Megamonster, Walliams gives us a monster that’s as funny as it is fearsome, a creature that tests kids’ courage, teamwork, and quick thinking. Meanwhile, The Water Horse brings a gentler, mysterious beast to life, born from the waves of a Scottish loch.

These stories remind us that monsters aren’t always enemies; sometimes they’re misunderstood friends. They show children that bravery doesn’t mean not being afraid. It means choosing curiosity over fear.

That’s a lesson I wanted to echo in my own book, The Lamb Gang Save the Loch Ness Monster, a rhyming, early-reader adventure set in Scotland, where a group of unlikely animal friends discovers that “Nessie” isn’t something to run from, but someone to stand up for.

Why Loch Ness Still Captures Our Imagination

There’s something timeless about Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster - a legend whispered through generations. Whether she’s real or not, Nessie represents the power of mystery and belief.

In a world where kids are bombarded with information, these enduring myths offer something precious: wonder. They invite children to look deeper, into the ocean, into their imagination, and into themselves.

Monsters with a Message

Across children’s literature, “monsters” often mirror our biggest lessons:

• The Lorax by Dr Seuss warns us about ignoring our planet’s cries.

• Megamonster by David Walliams turns villains into heroes through laughter.

• The Water Horse by Dick King-Smith shows compassion for the misunderstood.

• And in The Lamb Gang Save the Loch Ness Monster, friendship, bravery, and kindness ripple across the loch like waves.

When children read stories like these, they begin to see that even the scariest challenges can be faced with teamwork and heart.

If You Loved These Stories, Try These Next

If your little reader loves monster adventures with heart, they might also enjoy:

• The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Shepherd

• Somebody Swallowed Stanley by Sarah Roberts

• The Great Chocoplot by Chris Callaghan

• Harry the Happy Mouse series by N.G.K.

  
  

And of course, The Lamb Gang Save the Loch Ness Monster - a story about courage, kindness, and protecting what’s precious. 👉 Buy it on Amazon or Learn More Here