Monty and Mandy Take On Camp Spaloonka (Adam Wallace, illus Dave Atze, Larrikin)

Monty and Mandy Take on Camp Spaloonka is a junior graphic novel that follows the hilarious adventures of Monty and Mandy, two best friends who get very excited about everything from the microwave pinging to the toilet flushing. When it comes to their first school camp, their enthusiasm knows no bounds. The friends set their sights on winning the camp talent show and are willing to do whatever exciting, crazy idea they come up with. Adam Wallace (Dragonfire: 18,000 Holes in the Universe) has crafted a story that is delightfully ridiculous, humorous and wildly over the top, which will have kids laughing out loud. The book doesn’t shy away from tackling tough topics, such as bullying and unsupportive parents, but it does so with a positive, can-do attitude that makes these issues more accessible to navigate. Most importantly, the story is funny, keeping readers engaged with its playful tone and quirky humour. Dave Atze’s illustrations perfectly complement the humour in the book, matching the silly, fun tone and adding to the overall enjoyment of the story. Monty and Mandy Take on Camp Spaloonka is a fantastic choice for libraries and schools, offering an accessible read for early or hesitant readers. It’s a great starting point for children to read independently and discover new words while laughing and enjoying the adventure, and is for fans of the Captain Underpants, Pizza and Taco, and Dog Man series.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Bohdi Byles is a queer, Indigenous freelance reviewer with a background in bookselling, library work, publishing and writing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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Category: Reviews