Numbskull and Nincompoop: Science Fair shenanigans by Adam Wallace and Dave Atze

Lovers of highly-illustrated series such as WeirDo and Fart Boy (by the same author) will adore the ludicrous, madcap adventures of best friends Mandy and Monty (aka Numbskull and Nincompoop). Their ridiculous names are almost as ridiculous as the things they get up to (including, but not limited to, burning down the neighbours house and drawing with chalk on an airplane runway). One particular chapter that will tickle the funny bone of all readers is when Monty pulls the covers over his head but then has cold feet, so he pulls the covers over his feet and has a cold head. This sequence continues for the entire chapter. Their excuses for being late for school are 'I like banana smoothies' and 'Flies are scary when they yell at you'.

The first half of the book is basically nonsense followed by nonsense, but it's witty and hillarious and the black and white illustrations are perfect and comical. The second half of the book is the battle to win the science fair. But going up against a boy named Samson (his father's name is Montgomery), the self-proclaimed smartest boy in the school, is destined to be difficult. Especially for two kids who think the contest is about 'signs' and 'being fair'. 'I'll see you both in hospital', says their concerned science teacher.' The other half of the fun is witnessing the pure frustration and desparation of Mandy's mother and the complete ignorance of Monty's mum who calls Monty things like 'my squiggly little worm' and is forever trying to shower him with love and affection. And of course, there is toilet humour. This is sure to be a hit for those who have read Fart Boy and are looking for something similar. 

Themes: Humorous stories, Friendship, Graphic Novels.

Nicole Nelson