Kneeknock Rise

by Natalie Babbitt
Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2007 reprint

When Egan goes to Instep to visit his aunt, uncle, and cousin for the town's annual fair, he is eager to hear evidence of the monster, Megrimum that lives on Kneeknock Rise. Megrimum sounds his eerie groans whenever there's a rainstorm, and tourists come from far and wide for the unique auditory experience. Everyone wants to hear Megrimum, but no one wants to climb Kneeknock Rise to see him, for the word is that none come back alive.

As the fair draws to a close and raindrops start to fall, Egan and his cousin, Ada, get into a dispute. Ada goads him into proving he is not a sissy by climbing the Rise, and Egan takes up the challenge, accompanied by his uncle's faithful dog, Annabelle.

What will Egan find if he gets to the mountain's top? Does the Megrimum really exist, and if so, will he slay it or be defeated?

This well-written, thoughtful book was the recipient of the Newbery Award in 1984. Recommended for young readers or as a read-aloud.