It’s far too long since I reviewed one of Lexi Rees’s children’s books here on Linda’s Book Bag. Consequently, I was delighted to accept Rachel’s offer to join the blog tour for Lexi’s latest book A Vampire Is NOT A Pet. It’s my pleasure to share my review today to start off the tour.
A Vampire Is NOT A Pet was published on 25th September 2025 and is available for purchase here.
A Vampire Is NOT A Pet
Yasmin REALLY wants a pet. A cat, a dog—she’d even settle for a snake. After all, there’s hardly anything Yasmin is afraid of… unless you count ghosts, zombies, monsters, and maybe custard. But Velma wasn’t the pet Yasmin expected. For starters, there are the fangs. And, well… she’s a vampire.
From classroom chaos and dental disasters to a blood bank heist (don’t ask), the world’s worst cow impressions (really don’t ask), and a Halloween party wild enough to wake the dead, Yasmin and Velma are about to have the time of their (after)lives.
As the mayhem piles up, Yasmin starts to wonder… could a vampire be the most fang-tastic pet ever?
My Review of A Vampire Is NOT A Pet
Yasmin is desperate for a pet.
A Vampire Is NOT A Pet is such a fun read. It’s jam packed with wacky, manic events as Velma and Yasmin unintentionally get into all kinds of scrapes so that the story races along.
The night-time shaded effect on the first page of each chapter, as well as the illustrations of Velma with her incredibly expressive face, all help make this a really engaging story. With short chapters the book is one that children can read independently, although one or two references such as the importance of garlic can be enhanced by an adult explaining further. Indeed, there’s a sublayer to the narrative that adult readers will really enjoy with reference to stakes/steaks and so on. I thought this approach was brilliant because it makes the story perfect for readers of any age.
However, the real appeal is for the younger reader. From wanting a pet as Yasmin does, through school show and tell, to not enjoying eating green things or being apprehensive about a visit to the dentist for example, there’s so much that is appealing and relatable for children. The most affecting element of all I think, is Velma’s desire to be accepted, to fit in and to have a true friend. In amongst all the funny, zany episodes is a wistful desire to belong. I think all readers, regardless of age, will be able to relate to this concept.
I had huge fun reading A Vampire Is NOT A Pet because it’s filled with action, fast paced and somewhat bonkers – just the kind of narrative young readers will love. And for adults reading A Vampire Is NOT A Pet to or with children, watch out. You’re going to be badgered forever for a vampire as a pet!
About Lexi Rees
Lexi Rees was born in Scotland but now lives down south where she’s slave to carrot obsessed gelding, a frisky mare, a dog who’s convinced he’s not been fed in a month, and a house of hungry boys.
She writes action-packed adventures and fun activity books for children. She’s passionate about reducing her footprint on the planet and becoming more self-sufficient.
She has an active programme of school visits and other events, is a Book PenPal for three primary schools, and runs a free online #kidsclub and newsletter which includes book recommendations and creative writing activities.
For further information, visit Lexi’s website or find her on Instagram, Facebook and X @lexi_rees.
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English (US) · 