I thought this book could have been more exciting, but I did enjoy the ending very much. I think that the big picture of this story is to be yourself and be original. The characters were very believable to me. The younger sister would use her older sister's old Halloween costumes but would get disappointed when her older sister got all the attention. It reminded me of my older sister and I, which was why I felt that the characters were so relatable. I think that the author did a good job of showing readers that it is ok to be original. The younger sister couldn't fit in her older sisters costume which made her realize that she could create her own costume. When the younger sister made her ghost costume she made it the way she wanted by herself and her older sister liked her idea very much. The language was well developed and concise. It is easy for readers to understand and follow along with, but at the same time it is descriptive. I think if the readers were to read this book without being able to see the illustrations, they would be able to picture the story themselves. ( )

Big Sister Bernadette always has the best Halloween costumes. Everyone thinks so. That's why little sister Angela decides to wear Bernadette's costume from the previous year. Unfortunately, being a costume copycat doesn't make Angela a star. After several years of being a costume copycat, Angela decides to maker her own costume. She's in for a pleasant surprise when the neighbors see her handmade costume.

The Bottom Line: Sometimes it's better to be yourself than to follow in someone else's footsteps. This is a cute tale of sibling rivalry. Charming watercolor and ink illustrations by Wilsdorf bring the text to life. Enthusiastically recommended for kids in grades Pre-K - 1. This picture book would be great for storytime too.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog. ( )

Angela loves Halloween! It’s always so much fun to get dressed up and receive treats, especially from friendly Mrs. Walker. She gives out the best candy apples. Thus, Halloween should be a happy and stress free event. Unfortunately, it's not that way for Angela.

You see, while Angela delights in her costumes, her older sister Bernadette always seems to pick the absolute perfect disguises every year. Somehow Bernadette’s costumes are never affected by adverse weather conditions and always seem to entertain the neighborhood including Mrs. Walker. It’s just not fair! Angela wants to look as good as Bernadette. She wants special treatment and treats. Therefore, Angela decides to become a “costume copycat” and starts wearing Bernadette’s old costumes every Halloween. Will Angela finally be admired and given special treats?

The Costume Copycat by Maryann Macdonald is a very cute and relatable Halloween story. The illustrations are bright, endearing, and comical. The story is perfect for story times because it is all about the favorite childhood pastime of trick-or-treating. Furthermore, this is one holiday picture book that has a true and interesting plot. ( )