Mutant Bunny Island: A Funny Illustrated Mystery About a Remote Island and Strange Bunnies for Kids

Mutant Bunny Island #1

by Obert Skye, Eduardo Vieira (Illustrator)

Obert Skye, author of the bestselling Leven Thumps series, delivers a delightful mixture of offbeat mystery and laugh-out-loud humor in this thoroughly inventive adventure complete with comic-style illustrations, the first in a trilogy. Ten-year-old Perry Owens has learned everything he needs to know from comic books. So when Perry receives a troubling message from his favorite uncle, Zeke, he knows exactly what’s wrong. Obviously, evil newts wearing trench coats must have kidnapped Zeke . Now they’re holding him hostage somewhere on Bunny Island, the remote vacation destination that Zeke calls home. On his own, Perry travels to Bunny Island, where dozens of bunnies are running wild. One in particular doesn’t seem quite right. A creature this cute shouldn’t exist in nature. Are there truly evil newts on the loose, or something much stranger...and more disturbingly adorable?

Genres: Humor, Middle Grade, Fantasy, Animals, Childrens, Rabbits, Adventure

224 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2017

About the author

Obert Skye read his first book at age two. He wrote his first story at age four. And he was nearly trampled by a herd of water buffalo at age six. For a short time, he lived on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, where he spent time as a candy-taster. Several years ago, Obert Skye says, he discovered the existence of Foo. Publishing his story as a fictional series was not Obert’s first choice. Nevertheless he is content that the “history” is being told.

Hobbies and other interests: Collecting old maps, water polo, roller coasters.

Reviews

[Dolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very strange, but entertaining story for young readers.

interesting quotes:

"When things look as dark as ink, always suck it up and get kraken." (p. 2)

"When the danger is great, swim with speed, and don't pee in the ocean." (p. 11)

[Carol Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Book Belongs in the Library

Will he succeed????

A review by Noah grade 4 student

Mutant Bunny Island by Obert Skye

A young boy named Perry has learned everything needed from comic books, but when his uncle sends out a distress call, Perry has to travel to bunny island and rescue his uncle.

He believes his foes to be evil newts wearing trench coats, he adds a little salty stuff to a suitcase full of snakes and junk, then alone, he travels to an island full of bunnies. He must try to do the impossible, to SAVE HIS UNCLE!!!,

will he succeed?

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not gonna lie, I didn't have super high hopes for this one. I ended up quite liking it! It's zany and silly and fun. Full of action, it makes for a quick, entertaining read that will appeal to kids who like graphic novels. Reluctant readers will find this one to their liking, I think.

[CharleyTheKitsune · Rating 5 out of 5]

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[Pop Bop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Outlandish. But Reliably Clever and Strange Fun from Skye.

This book starts out weird and then basically carves out its own, unique, and absurd path.

Our ten year old hero, Perry, is a huge fan of the comic book character Admiral Uli, the Squid. The Squid's sworn enemies are the Newts. Perry is a true believer in the truth behind the comic book, so he models his life after Admiral Uli and he is constantly on the alert for signs of Newt activity. Got that? I know it all sounds arch and precious, but as a sort of joke on Star Trek style fanboys, it sort of grows on you. Although it takes a while, because at first it feels like the joke might get old pretty fast.

Anyway, Perry gets a cryptic note from his free-spirited and equally weird Uncle Zeke on Bunny Island. It looks like Uncle Zeke might be in trouble, maybe even kidnapped. It could be the work of Newts!! Perry gets his Dad, (who is game, oblivious, but sweetly supportive), to allow him to fly to Bunny Island to "visit" Uncle Zeke, and from there the adventure/mystery takes off.

Here's the thing. Perry is a funny, deadpan, remarkably engaging character. The squid/newt stuff does start to get tired, but by then you really don't mind because everything else is amusing and engagingly off-kilter. If you dropped the squid/newt angle the book would still be fun, but it wouldn't be bizarro fun, and that was the point. Well, we do eventually drop the squid/newt stuff, but that's mostly to make room for the mutant bunnies, so I guess this does stay bizarro all the way down.

Anyway, again, in addition to Perry we pick up a funny, appealing, no-nonsense girl sidekick and a local guy who's up for adventure, and this gang of oddballs sort of rackets around Bunny Island. There is a lot of witty cross-talk and some sly deadpan throwaway humor, in addition to the antics that surround the actual Uncle Zeke disappearance plot. As you might expect, Perry finds the hero within, and actually spends some time outside, so it's a win all around.

Skye has the ability to go over the top while still engaging the reader and getting him/her to play along with the joke, and that skill, coupled with three fine kid characters and an upbeat, high-energy, approach to the story, made this an entertaining and satisfying read. A nice find.

(Please note that I found this book while browsing the local library's Kindle books, and downloaded it for free. I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)

[Christine H · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a story about cute, fluffy bunnies, then this isn’t really the book for you. Well, actually, hang on. There ARE cute, fluffy bunnies here, but don’t forget that even the title warns you that mutants abound.

1. I like stories that are smart-funny, not just slapstick-funny. Skye’s writing has that in spades. I loved all the word play in the book, most especially because I think my students will really appreciate his cleverness. I mean, the first chapter is called “Getting Squiddy with It”, for goodness’ sake.

2. Perry is a lovable character whom, I think, many people will be able to identify with. I would much rather stay indoors than enjoy the allergens outside – though for him, he’s avoiding newts, not ragweed. He seems to have a great relationship with his dad. I wish the author had explored more the reasons his mom isn’t in the picture, but it looks like Mr. Owens is really trying to be a good dad AND friend to Perry.

3. Rain is so annoying at first, and it takes quite a while for me to warm up to him. I suppose there’s not much to do on his island, but still. I’m glad he becomes less annoying towards the end.

4. I’m also glad that although there are hints of Perry blushing around Juliet, that storyline doesn’t dip into romance, which the story doesn’t need. If there’s to be another book with these characters, I’d be more interested in seeing how the friendship among Perry, Juliet, and Rain develop than in any potential love story. And even without a love plot, I’d love to read Perry’s awkwardness at dealing with girls.

5. One of the best things about this book is that it intersperses elements of graphic novels with the narrative structure. The artwork after every chapter not only provides back stories of Admiral Uli and the rest of the squids that Perry wishes were his friends, but it also serves to give readers a pause from the main story. For many of my kids who sometimes have a hard time getting through novels, this set-up is absolutely perfect.

6. The squid humour is great. Just thought I’d add that in again. Our library copy has already been borrowed and loved, so I know this will be a great hit amongst my kids who love funny, fast-paced stories with great art.

[Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book* · Rating 3 out of 5]

Skye, Obert Mutant Bunny Island, 200 pages. Harper Collins Publisher (Harper), 2017. $13. Language: G (swear count 0); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.

Fifth-grader Perry Owens doesn’t have many friends. He spends most of his time in his room reading comic books that his Uncle Zeke sends him. When summer break starts, and Perry receives a mysterious message from his uncle hidden in the latest comic book, he knows he must leave the comforts of his room and fly to Bunny Island to save Uncle Zeke. Prepared with all he has learned from the characters in his comics, Perry sets out to solve the mysteries of why the islanders are obsessed with carrot juice and why there are so many adorable bunnies roaming the island. Along the way, he manages to make some new friends and discovers that he can have fun outside the fantasy world of his comic book heroes.

A complete departure from the Levin Thumps series, Obert Skye goes full throttle with his off-the-wall sense of humor in this newest book. A harmless and funny tale of a hero who manages to get everything wrong but still solves the mystery in the end. Although the book doesn’t stand out as a must-have, it is an entertaining read for kids who think their comic book heroes can solve anything.

EL – OPTIONAL. LMA, future elementary school teacher
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...

[Akoss · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this book from the Kidlitexchange network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Perry is a boy who isn’t much into outdoor activities and prefers the company of comic books in the comfort of his bedroom to anything else. However when he receives a call for help from his one and only favorite uncle he doesn’t hesitate and sets out on an adventure to save him.

Mutant Bunny Island challenged my limits when it came to suspending my disbelief while reading fiction. At first I had a hard time connecting with Perry’s personality. He took fiction so seriously it was his reality and he saw everything through those lenses. My curiosity for where the story was going was what kept me reading.

I was aware the story was somewhat meant to be funny at times but to me it was too ludicrous to incite laughter and I’ve read my share of funny children books.

Ultimately this book just wasn’t for me. It’s possible I had high expectations for it. However I recommend it for reluctant readers and children who enjoy comic books because of the combination of comic book spreads and prose.

[Stephanie Bange · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two mysterious clues drop from the comic book that Perry received from his favorite uncle, Zeke. Put together, he immediately deducts that Zeke is in trouble and must be rescued. Although he is pretty much a comic book-obsessed hermit and junk foodie, Perry begs his single father to put him on the next airplane to Bunny Island, where Zeke lives. His father cheerfully complies. So begins this over-the-top hare-raising adventure that draws in Perry.

The book is told in tandem with relevant excerpts from “Ocean Blasterzoids” comics (illustrations by Eduardo Vieira) that Perry refers to when solving the mysterious disappearance of his uncle and the unusual activity on the island, which will appeal to comic book readers. The short chapters, fast-paced action and rapid-fire puns will keep reluctant readers moving forward in this quick read by the author of the Leven Thumps series.

An optional purchase for kids who love Wimpy Kid and Big Nate, grades 3-7.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

** The copy I read was an advance reader copy I received through Edelweiss +. **

An amusing, action (and cute bunny)-packed story perfect for younger readers. The addition of comic strips showing the reader a bit of what the main character (and his uncle) are so infatuated with was a nice touch. The characters are fun, the mystery was adorably amusing, and the humor was spot on. I particularly liked the descriptions the author used, "She was as skinny as a post, and as pretty as someone standing in a flowery field, petting a horse on a sunny day." and "My stomach felt like it was housing two badgers who were now fighting over a wad of meat." are two of my favorites. I would recommend this book to any middle-graders who love action, adventure and humor and to reluctant readers, as the humor and comic strip additions will help keep their interest.

[Brigid · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another recommendation from my oldest. While I didn't like this one as much as the author's Creature from my Closet series (which I actually recommend to adults who read out loud with kids fairly often--it's a solid series), I did appreciate that the entire book is done in "kid logic." If the narrator was anyone other than an incredibly naive and sheltered ten-year-old nothing in here would make sense. The last minute trip to Uncle Zeke's house with zero planning and absolute agreement from dad? If dad is narrating, this isn't happening. But with a kid? Sure. Why not?

I kept waiting for this to be a set up that the dad and Zeke planned to get Perry to have an adventure over the summer. But no, it really was mutant bunnies and a mad scientist and [checks notes]... a Scooby Doo level con with a crooked land development deal. Huh.

[Stacie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mutant Bunny Island, by Obert Skye, is a quirky, zany, action-packed graphic novel. Starring Perry, a boy who loves comic books - it’s also a fantasy, taking readers on a fantastic journey to Bunny Island. Of course, like any comic, this story has an evil foe to defeat - and plenty of laughs to go along with superhero action.

My 8-year-old son gobbled this story up from start to finish! We are thankful to Kidlit Exchange and HarperCollins Publishers for receiving an ARC of Mutant Bunny Island. A graphic novel that will appeal to kids who love humor (my son is also a big fan of Dav Pilkey’s books), fantasy and/or superheroes, this is a fast paced read that should find many young fans.

*Received an ARC from Kidlit Exchange & HarperCollins Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

[Jolas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book would be on the too silly side of reading for me. I was actually pretty surprised that yes despite the silly parts, it really captured my interest. I think because the main character is so like some of my own students. The book's hero, ten year old Perry, lives to eat junk food and read comics at home. For most of his life does not venture out from this existence until one of the few people he is connected to desperately needs his help.

I thought the story was creative and very well done. I think my students would initially be drawn to the 1/2 graphic novel style of the story yet find themselves caught up in the adventure. I connected right away with the main character as he felt familiar in many ways to some young male students I know.

[Megan Hahn · Rating 3 out of 5]

#partner Thank you @kidlitexchange for a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own. Perry is a kid that doesn't have many of his own adventures but knows quite a bit about them. She spends all his time reading his vintage Ocean Blasterzoids comics sent by his Uncle Zeke. Perry is perfectly content to read his comics, stay in his room and eat junk food. That is until his Uncle Zeke needs him! A message is sent in code and Perry jumps on the next plane to Bunny Island!

This is a fun book that is very approachable for early middle grade students. The story is silly but that's a good thing. This book would be great for reluctant readers because of its high-interest topic of mutant bunnies and comic books but still has the chapter book feel.

[carcinoGeneticist · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book as a kid, particularly because I REALLY like bunnies! I haven't read it in years, but I remember loving it. It makes no sense in a good way and it's wonderfully weird. I don't know how the heck Obert Skye came up with this, but I sure am glad I did! Perry reminds me a bit of me because I also get obsessed with stuff like how Perry does. The thing I'm obsessed with is even a comic, also like Perry (Except in my case, that comic is Homestuck, not a weird squid book. XD) !
All in all this book is a very good read for a kid, especially if you like bunnies, funny stories, and weird books. I would 100% recommend it!

[Erica Wichtowski · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book with my 8 year old son. He gives it 4 stars. I give it 3. He says it was really good! We laughed out loud a few times together. It definitely kept our interest and we needed to see how it ended.

I gave it a lower rating than my son because I couldn’t accept some of the things that happen in the book at face value. Lol. You’ll see. I also was disappointed in the dad’s lack of involvement. Again, you’ll see.

But it was cute and funny!

[Karen JEC · Rating 4 out of 5]

An adorably teenagery romp through a summer of growing up. Loved listening to the audiobook, read by a young male American voice with different fun voices for all the characters. Would recommend for all the squids out there.

Favourite Quotes:

"I should have trusted my tentacles!"

A: "It does a number on my stomach."
B: "A number?"
A: "Two."

"That scared the glitter out of me."

[Darcy( Taylors Version) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a funny book! Perry is such a fun character and he feels very relatable to me. Wants to be alone and read comic books. But anyway I think this is a great book to read when you need a laugh or a smile. You will be shocked, you will laugh, and you will smile. And if you love bunnies or have a pet bunny this will bring you joy hopefully.

[Mrs. Shh! · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely hilarious. Perfect for the lovers of humorous fiction crowd, Obert Skye has written yet another great addition to the genre. Vieira's illustrations are a perfect compliment to the story.

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give this book to a reluctant reader. It incorporates comic elements, a lot of action, and a very silly storyline. For me, I thought it was a bit of a weird storyline, hence the 3 stars, but I think it would be good for some upper elementary/early middle school male readers.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book aloud to my son.
I honestly had higher hopes for it, but Brodi absolutely loved it. So I decided on 4 stars. My daughter even started listening in. This is my first book by this author and I’d say I would like to check more out.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this with my 9 year son, and he loved it! He gives it 4.5 stars. It kept him giggling the whole time. Son and I really enjoyed Skye's Creature in my Closet series, so Mutant Bunnies were an insta buy. Very pleased! The kid enjoyed the comics inside, though I don't think they added to the story in any way.

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Off-kilter silliness. Extreme misfit Perry believes his comic book delusions enough to let them define his interactions with reality, but he stumbles into an entirely different type of nefarious plot than the one he imagines. Both are ridiculous fun.

[Al · Rating 3 out of 5]

The squid puns got a bit old after a while, but the weird humor and odd situations will probably appeal to Captain Underpants fans.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, but it wasn't Hamstersaurus Rex.

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audio book. My kids and I really enjoyed this book. We laughed so often and it kept my 9 year old and my 13 year old interested. Delightful!

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cute but we got bored, my kids and I, and moved on to other books.

[Dawn Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crazy weird, but still enjoyable with occasionally really funny parts. If you can just go with it rather than questioning it, you'll have fun.

[Stephanne Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's cute, but the squid thing was really over done making it bothersome.

[Daniel Stickel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was amazing! Do yourself a favor and give it a read.