TIME TRAVEL TROUBLE

This book might be the definition of “Your mileage may vary.”

A lot of people like to say, “The stupidest jokes are always the best,” but this book may test their patience levels. In the third chapter, for example, a character says, “I was talking about your grammar,” and Vordak answers, “Hey! You leave that sweet old lady out of this!” It might help to think of this book as a psychological test. Older readers can use it as a dating service: If two people both laugh at the grammar joke, they might be perfect for each other. But even fans of dumb jokes may get frustrated with the narrator. Vordak is one of the least sympathetic characters in children’s literature. Sometimes he breaks the fourth wall to insult readers directly. He says, “…how can I be expected to concentrate with that goofy mug of yours staring down at me all beady-eyed and everything?” The “About the Author” page says, “Vordak the Incomprehensible is a world-class Supervillain and the Evil Master of all he surveys.” So it’s no surprise that the book is full of abuse and bad jokes.

Vordak’s longtime fans will welcome the unpleasantness. Your mileage may vary.