The Top Secret Interdimensional Notes of Buttons McGinty Book 2

The first few pages of this delightfully funny book does in fact ‘fill the reader in’ on some background information as to the how and why of Buttons’ current predicament; i.e. his parents are ‘missing, presumed missing’ and Buttons had been sent to RIEFGLUM boarding school. Although Buttons does encourage the reader to first read Book 1, this can be enjoyed as a stand-alone story.

As the series title suggests, this is a journal and as such, is written in diary-style complete with jottings, cartoon-style drawings and diagrams. Morse code is also included throughout the story and there is a code at the back to help the reader decipher it.

Fans of a more informal type of read such as DWK, Weirdo and Tom Gates will enjoy this. I think the humour, which also includes some NZ humour and unpredictable sci-fi elements gives this series an edge and will appeal to readers looking for adventure.

Rhys Darby has got a great imagination when it comes to creating characters: sellers in booths with bizarre goods, a gang of thieving nanas and Hunu, a postie, who seems to arrive at just the right moment; all adding interest to this story.

Buttons’ quest to find his parents is not quite completed in Book 2 of this series, leaving room for a third story. We’re looking forward to it.

Title: The Top Secret Interdimensional Notes of Buttons McGinty Book 2

Author & Illustrator: Rhys Darby

Publisher: Scholastic

ISBN: 9781775435587

RRP: $17.99

Format: Paperback

Date of Publication: October 2019

Ages: 8-11

Reviewer: by Nova Gibson, Librarian, Massey Primary School, Auckland

How are you recommending this book? Recommended

Opening sentence: This is my second action journal of TOP SECRET notes – so, just in case you haven’t had the chance to read my first book, I’d better fill you in.

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