Thomas Elliott Books

This is a remarkably sophisticated picture book with a great sense of humour on every page, through the words and the pictures.

A story of revenge and how it never pays, filled with humour that an adult can also enjoy, with references to Bond villains and plenty of wordplay (he’s not only the Mushroom of Doom but also a fun guy!). The pictures are entirely in keeping with the zany plot, and giving mushrooms distinct personalities takes skill. A wonderful, ambiguous ending also means there is plenty to discuss in this story. The Mushroom is a stereotypical villain who may, or may not, get his comeuppance and a character who appears to fail to learn from his mistakes and the kindness of others.

It is rare to find a picture book that makes me laugh out loud as this one did. The very idea of a Mushroom as a villain will make readers of all ages intrigued to read the book, and this mushroom did not disappoint.