Andy and Terry have added another 13 storey’s to their already fantastical tree house. Readers can expect loads more absurd antics and fun filled adventures and the 39th floor doesn’t disappoint.
When Terry reveals possibly the best invention in the history of the universe, Andy is of course completely baffled as to what it is. Terry answers, ‘It’s a once upon a time machine, of course.’
A machine capable of writing an entire book, with absolutely no effort on Andy and Terry’s part. It had nobs and buttons for every plot device, character generator and action maker you can think of, and the guys decide it’s even more innovative than hot ice cream.
Well, things don’t quite go to plan when the machine decides it can write a better book than Andy and Terry, and it locks them out of their very own tree house.
Never fear, help is at hand. The boys enlist Professor Stupido, the world’s best un-inventor, who comes along to save the day. If he can un-invent the “Once upon a time machine,’ everything will go back to the way it is. Except he keeps un-inventing everything the guys hold dear, or find particular helpful for the survival of the human race.
They keep their wits about them, and manage to outwit the pesky un-inventing professor, with the help of their trusty spooncil. An invention that the professor knew nothing about or he would have un-invented it. The boys prevail in the end and thankfully, there will be more floors and fun filled adventures.
This was a face paced, hoot of a book that will surely keep kids entertained with the fun illustrations. It is a relatively easy read, which I believe will be great to gain the attention of reluctant readers or anyone who loves a crazy adventure. It is packed with funny characters and as the writers self-confess, no moral lesson whatsoever. I especially liked the way plot points were mentioned as part of how the machine makes a book, and they were all included as the story unfolded. I think teachers and librarians will particularly delight in this book, as it gives kids a fun example of how a book comes together.
I am looking forward to the next instalment and highly recommend it for ages 7-10.
Reviewed for Creative Kids Tales by Julie Grasso.