'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday, 9 November 2011

Review: Ronny Rock Starring in Monster Cake Meltdown

Ronny Rock is one lucky kid. His lives above a bakery that sells the most divine cakes and slices and cookies and pastries and pies - all made by his very talented dad.

These goodies are so divine, the bakery needs to keep a fresh bucket of water at the front door, just so swooning kids can be revived when overcome from the sheer variety of deliciousness before them.

Like I said, Ronny is a lucky kid.

It's Friday in the bakery, and Friday is birthday cake day. Ronny delights in watching his dad create all manner of delectable cakes - from a racing car to a cat being over-run with naughty mice.


After all the cakes are made, Ronny's dad heads out for the night and his babysitter, fifteen year old groovester Kieran, arrives to watch him, play bun pong (as opposed to ping pong), eat chicken pie ... and discover an order form for a forgotten monster cake for 4-year-old Alfie - oh no! How will the cake be made on time?

Taking things into their own hands, the boys bake and create a monster of a cake, alright. But will Alfie like it? Or will his reaction result in a monstery bakery meltdown?

High on text, the words nonetheless flow in this charming book, making it an ideal picture-heavy read for older children or a longer read to engage the very young. Packed with loads of detail (including the construction of the cakes), this vibrant book is a fanciful visual romp through baking, using cartoon strips, typography and charming images to ensnare the reader and make for lots of giggles.

There's even a quiz at the back to make sure everyone was paying attention! Like a pink slick of icing, this book is adorable and delicious.

Title: Ronny Rock Starring in Monster Cake Meltdown
Author: Merryn Threadgould 
Illustrator: Bruce Ingman
Publisher: Walker Books, $24.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 September 2011
Format: Soft cover
ISBN:  9781406335927
For ages: 6+

Type: Picture Book