Independent Book Review of The Legend of CacklePatch

“Teachers’ Pick”

By Theresa Campbell, M.Ed.

As an educator and educational consultant with over 20 years of experience in K-12 curriculum, I am thoroughly impressed by how The Legend of CacklePatch not only integrates with all subject areas, but is also a delight to read.  

With a backdrop of enchanting Halloween magic and a main character that exudes both charm and wit, The Legend of CacklePatch by C.E. Scantlebury is an extraordinary addition to literature. This book is a masterful blend of whimsical storytelling and timeless themes. It’s crafted to capture imaginations while encouraging readers to embrace their individuality.

At the heart of The Legend of CacklePatch is the character of CacklePatch, the Halloween Raccoon. His world, illustrated in vivid and bold scenes, invites children of all ages into a place where “weirdness” is celebrated, and each reader is invited to appreciate what makes them unique. From the very first page, the story flows with a rhythm and tone that captures young readers and holds them spellbound, seamlessly mixing humor, adventure, and a hint of the macabre in a way that feels both classic and refreshingly original.

As children and young adults read, they can enhance their experience by following the many lesson plans provided, including science, social studies, art, drama, math, and English language arts. The book’s rhyme scheme, thematic depth, and rich vocabulary lend themselves beautifully to poetry analysis and creative writing exercises, while the enchanting “potion” scene invites hands-on scientific exploration that is fun and memorable.

Beyond these curricular connections, The Legend of CacklePatch also fulfills a greater purpose: it fosters an environment of empathy, acceptance, and creativity within the classroom. As educators, we are always searching for books that support social-emotional learning while engaging children in meaningful ways. This book achieves that with elegance, giving young readers a safe space to explore themes of individuality, self-expression, and the joy of being delightfully “different.”

I highly recommend The Legend of CacklePatch for classroom libraries, seasonal reading programs, and schoolwide events. It offers educators a unique, multi-faceted teaching tool while providing children with a story that is as fun as it is formative. This is more than just a seasonal story—it’s a book that will continue to resonate with readers all year long, reminding them that a touch of magic lies within each of us.