Future Ratboy and the attack of the killer robot grannies

Gr 2-4-This extensively illustrated British import is loaded with absurd humor and silly gags. When Colin's father throws out the family television during a rainstorm, superhero-obsessed Colin jumps inside the garbage bin to rescue it. Unfortunately, the garbage bin is struck by lightning and magically transports Colin millions of years into the future. Colin discovers he not only traveled through time but also has been transformed into a combination rat-boy-television, courtesy of the contents of the garbage bin. Colin enlists the help of talented outcasts to get back home but inadvertently stumbles into a body part-snatching mystery involving the titular killer robot grannies. Fast-paced and cheeky, this title is a solid addition to the ever-growing graphic hybrid category. The enlarged type will encourage newly independent and reluctant readers. Cartoonish illustrations highlight the goofier aspects of the plot and appear on almost every page. There are quite a few Briticisms but because of the contextual support, non-British readers should have no trouble decoding their meaning. Several loose ends set up a sequel in this planned series. VERDICT Though short on substance, this graphic hybrid entertains with irreverent wit and slapstick comedy.-Sophie Kenney, Vernon Area Public Library District, IL © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.