Whales on Stilts by M. T. Anderson
Who would like this book? Pre-teens and younger teens with a twisted sense of humor and like Dav Pilkey, Goosebumps, Lemony Snicket, and maybe Mad magazine. The absurdity of this story outdoes itself.
Why? Lily Gefelty is a curious 12-year-old with two seriously talented friends (Kate is the star of “Horror Hollow” and Jasper is “Boy Technonaut”) and a father who fails in his attempt to make his job appear normal. Lily wonders why her dad’s boss wears a sack over his head and become alarmed when she overhears him talking about taking over the world. She takes this threat seriously, and Jasper and Kate pledge their allegiance to her as they fight to save the world. It’s a zany fight, with continual digressions and, of course, whales on stilts. If that phrase resonates with you, you’ll probably love this book and laugh out loud throughout. If the phrase makes you roll your eyes and yawn, look for something that’s more grounded.
The details: 188 pp. 2005