I'm ready for an unique read; what about you? Today's read seems to head in that direction with promises of humor and paranormal adventure. It's said to be for readers who enjoy Goosebumps and The Goonies. I'm simply ready for some humor and a bit of quirky adventure. It just hit the shelves a week or so ago, so it's also ready for summer reading.
Let's see if this one is as fun as it sounds!
MONSTER SLIME CEREAL
by Mathew J. Levitt
Wild Skies Press
Middle Grade Humor
208 pages
ages 8 to 12
Monster Slime Cereal vanished from grocery store shelves decades ago. Now, it's back from the dead and with thirteen proofs-of-purchase, you could win the secret slimy prize.
When twelve-year-old Max Wozzler's dad disappears one night while following the contest's spooky clues, Max refuses to be left out of the fun. Unlikely trio-Max, Toby (his classmate crush), and Darrel (his sworn archenemy)-hit the highway on a grand adventure to track down Mr. Wozzler and become prize-winners themselves. But what if Monster Slime Cereal isn't the wholesome breakfast it claims to be?
Uncovering conspiracies, navigating friendships, and dealing with gas-station weirdos, Max and his crew must dig up the truth before school resumes on Monday....
This debut novel by Mathew Levitt is a stay-up-all-night, binge-worthy read for both kids and adults. Funny and bone-chilling, Monster Slime Cereal will delight those who grew up with Goosebumps, The Goonies, and anyone who craves a macabre mystery.
GREAT TASTE FOR BOTH KIDS AND ADULTS!*
*Nutritional Information: Horror 31%, Satire 9%, Adventure 14%, Mystery 21%, Romance 8%, Humor 17%
MY TIDBITS
This is one of those reads which manages to mix humor, adventure, horror, and middle grade fun in a way which grabs the entire way through.
Max isn't the best when it comes to school and he isn't always high on the social scale, either. He does, however, enjoy paranormal mysteries and runs across a new friend because of that. Life gets weird when his father brings home two boxes of cereal and claims they are exactly the same ones he enjoyed as a kid. Monster Slime Cereal seems to be Max's father's new obsession, and the boxes of cereal are popping up everywhere. Max's father is especially drawn in by the cereal's special offer. Collecting 13 proofs of purchases leads to a surprise. When his father goes missing while trying to fulfill the cereal's quest, Max is determined to get to the bottom of things and find him. Luckily, Max's new friend is willing to help, but then, even his arch-enemy suddenly wants to jump in. Together, the three try to figure out what is going on, but the truth might be more sinister than they could have ever imagined.
This book claims to be a bit like a Goosebumps meets The Goonies read, and that description fits well. There are spooks and tip-toes into horror, and this adds a slightly dark edge to keep the reader wondering what the truth really is. Then, there's adventure as the trio runs into unexpected situations and danger. While there are dark leans in the read, Max's more sarcastic view of the world hits against the views of his friends (well, more or less friends) to create enough humor and light-hearted moments to keep this from completely falling into the horror genre. Instead, there's a touch of creepy and macabre, but just enough to keep everything grabbing and fun.
While it's the adventure, paranormal leans, and sinister secrets, which drive the plot forward, there are also several messages to add goodness on the depth end. The characters do change during the story as they are forced to leave their comfort zones. There's also the forming of friendships and how getting to know someone can change perceptions. All of this mixes in nicely with the quick-paced plot to create a well-rounded adventure.
And here he is...
With a deep appreciation for the weirdness of humanity, Mat Levitt is a cultural anthropologist who works in museums, teaches university courses, and hosts the podcast Intangible Alberta. A natural born storyteller, he’s been writing fiction for family and friends since he was old enough to spell. To keep himself balanced, Mat looks for every opportunity to be outdoors – hiking, exploring, and spending time near water. Another favourite hobby is digging through thrift stores for things to add to his horror and vintage action figure collection. He lives with his family in a suburban home built in the 70s that used to be haunted but isn’t any more (they are pretty sure).
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