Publisher: Story Monsters Press

Retail Price: $12.95

Publication Date: 9/17/23

Trim Size: 8.5” x 11’

Interest Level: 4-14

Independent Press Award–2024 Distinguished Favorite 
Comics and Graphic Novels

Story Monster’s S.T.E.A.M. chronicles. Book one, Night watchers : nocturnal creatures of North America : coyotes, snakes, owls, spiders, and more Conrad J. Storad

Introducing Night Watchers – a new book by Conrad J. Storad

The world of science and nature just got a bit more exciting with the release of Night Watchers, the first title in a new book series called Story Monster’s S.T.E.A.M. Chronicles. Written for young readers by award-winning author Conrad J. Storad, the book is a graphic story to color. The book combines nonfiction topics with storytelling. Storad’s goal with this and all of his books is to ignite curiosity and inspire a love for reading and learning.

Each title in the Story Monster's S.T.E.A.M. Chronicles series is meant to introduce children to the exciting worlds of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. Each book uses dynamic language written at 4th grade level and is supported by engaging "graphic novel" style illustrations and coloring pages. The books are designed for young readers looking for an immersive, educational experience.

In Night Watchers, readers will meet Eddie, the eighth in a long line of elf owls who keep the night watch in the desert. This little owl is not only a dedicated night-time guardian, but also an incredible storyteller. As a student of the Story Monster, Eddie serves as a "learning guide" throughout the series, taking readers on a fun journey of discovery and exploration.

Author Conrad J. Storad is no stranger to accolades, having won the prestigious Will Rogers Gold Medallion Award in 2017 for his work on The Bat Book. A few of his many titles include Story Monsters Among Us and Gator, Gator Second Grader. With Linda Exley, he is co-author for the the Arizona Way Out West & Wacky series - all of which were published by Story Monsters Press. Arizona Way Out West & Witty was honored as OneBookAz for Kids in 2012, and was an official publication for Arizona’s Centennial celebration.

Storad has enjoyed a long career as a science journalist and editor for newspapers and magazines. He spent 24 years at Arizona State University as editor of the national award-winning ASU Research Magazine. He also was founding editor of Chain Reaction, a science magazine for students distributed to classrooms around the nation. Storad is the perfect author to introduce the world of S.T.E.A.M. to young readers in an exciting and accessible way.

Night Watchers is not just a book, but a shared experience that fosters a sense of community. Teachers, parents, and young readers alike can join Eddie and the Story Monster on a learning adventure. The book can serve as a foundation for further exploration of S.T.E.A.M. topics.

Night Watchers and other titles published by Story Monsters Press are available for purchase in the Story Monsters online store and at Amazon. Story Monsters Press is an imprint of Story Monsters LLC, dedicated to publishing books that offer hope, value differences, and help children build character. To learn more about Story Monsters Press, or to request a review copy of Night Watchers, please visit storymonsters.com.

Here are what others are saying…

Do you love facts about animals? Have you always wanted to know more about the animals where YOU live (North America)? Look inside! Night Watchers will allow you to see through the eyes of Eddie, an elf owl. Come along with Eddie and the Story Monster as he morphs before your eyes! Teachers, check-out the visuals and fun ways to build background knowledge. Also included, a Reading Guide to check comprehension. —K. M. Potts-Brooks, English Language Coordinator 

Story Monster has a visit with Eddie the Elf Owl.  Eddie introduces Story Monster to a variety of desert nocturnal animals.  Although Story Monster does not speak, the little monster morphs into different animals to help Eddie explain special features about the animals.  Children will find Story Monster fun and engaging.  The book contains a teacher friendly Reading Guide. —Kerrlita Westrick, Chair of the Grand Canyon Readers Award

Conrad Storad has done it again with his new book, Night Watchers! Storad's books are incredible. My students love them! As a teacher, I appreciate that pages with activity ideas, fun facts, and a glossary are always included at the back of the book. Nonfiction is a genre most children do not choose when picking books. Storad knows how to deliver informational text to young readers. I learned many new facts. He makes non-fiction fun! The illustrations by Jeff Yesh are fantastic. Children can color the pages as well. They’ll love that. Bravo Mr. Storad! —Melanie Vinay, 3rd grade teacher, Barberton, Ohio

Night Watchers is both educational and entertaining. What a delightful surprise when the Story Monster transforms into nocturnal characters as Eddie, the feathered encyclopedia, describes them. A story for all ages. The Reading Guide and Activities at the end will serve as an outstanding learning tool for young readers. Highly recommended! —Ann Hutchison, MLS, Director, Barberton Public Library, Barberton, Ohio

Step into the exciting world of Night Watchers - a captivating science adventure filled with intriguing nocturnal creatures. This book took me on a thrilling journey with Story Monster, who, with the help of Eddie the Elf Owl, serves as the perfect learning guide. The language used throughout the book is so lively and fun, it made exploring science feel like an exciting discovery rather than a lesson. The graphic novel style illustrations were a visual treat, adding an extra layer of excitement to the learning experience. I couldn't put it down, and I bet anyone who picks it up won't be able to either —Sue E, Reviewer. 5 stars

Night Watchers by Conrad J. Storad - 5/5 Children’s Fiction - Parenting & Families. Night Watchers: Nocturnal Creatures of North America is a fantastic read.  I believe all individuals are interested in or have a favorite animal and learning about nocturnal creatures is a great way to expand not only your knowledge but what you like.  My favorite nocturnal creature is Eddie the Elf Owl.  Eddie helps guides us through the story with a great narrative and stunning graphic novel illustrations.  My 5- and 7-year-olds thoroughly enjoyed this story and opened up the floor to many discussions about nocturnal animals. —Stephanie C.

5 1/2 Stars out of 5 Stars! I started this book loving the writing style and information but found myself wishing it was in color. It was so well done I felt like I was missing something and I was! I went back to the cover and saw that this book is intentionally not colored in because it's left for the reader TO COLOR! And this already awesome book just got awesomer (yeah I know that's not a word). Plus, when I had already decided I was giving it 5 stars... we made it to the activity guide at the back. Which made me want to give it 5 and a half stars. —Jenna S, Reviewer

5 Stars
Joining Story Monster on this nocturnal journey alongside Eddie the Elf Owl was an absolute delight. The book's engaging storytelling and "graphic novel" style illustrations kept me hooked from start to finish. It's a perfect read for young learners, parents, and teachers who want to ignite curiosity about science and nature. Night Watchers is an excellent resource for promoting literacy and fostering a love for S.T.E.A.M. subjects in a fun and engaging way. —Abigail L, Librarian