Here is a wacky book, sure to appeal to kids who like a bit of silly between the pages--which is most kids really! A trio of cheeky boys get up to all sorts of mischief, much to the dismay of their mother. One day she decides to take them to The Opera, to try to instill a little class into their characters. While they may have looked classy, their behaviour was anything but! The three boys create chaos before, during and after the show. But perhaps they have shown just enough promise to convince their mother to keep trying to bring up cultured children.
Adam Wallace has packed heaps of fun, one-liners within the text. There are many puns included, which makes this book a great resource for introducing kids to puns and their humorous possibilities.
This is a 'laugh out loud', enjoyable story that would appeal to children in primary school. With its low word count, larger text and illustrations on every page it makes this witty story accessible to weaker readers in middle to upper primary school. The story would also appeal to younger readers, especially if read with a parent who can give a little explanation to the hilarious puns.
Serena Geddes has done a great job with very expressive black and white illustrations. They complement and add to the meaning of the text beautifully.
I see a possible series in the works, built around these three larrikin lads--Rusty, Buster and Patch. Perhaps the next book will be a trip to the Art gallery. I wonder what crazy capers could happen there? Looking forward to reading the next in the series, if there is a next one! Adam?
Title: Rusty, Buster and Patch versus The Opera
Author: Adam Wallace
Illustrator: Serena Geddes
Publisher: Krueger Wallace Press, $12.00
Publication Date: July 2017
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 978-0-9944693-9-7
For ages: 7-12
Type: Early Reader