Synopses & Reviews
An explosive, highly charged, and hilarious middle-grade adventure from Mark Haddon, acclaimed author of
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.From the moment that Jim and his best friend, Charlie, bug the staff room and overhear two of their teachers speaking to each other in a secret language, they know there's an adventure on its way.
But what does "spudvetch" actually mean, and why do Mr. Kidd's eyes flicker with fluorescent blue light when Charlie says it to him? Perhaps Kidd and Pearce are bank robbers talking in code. Perhaps they're spies. Perhaps they are aliens. Whatever it is, Jimbo and Charlie are determined to find out.
There really is an adventure on its way. A nuclear-powered, one-hundred-ton adventure with reclining seats and a buffet car. And as it gathers speed and begins to spin out of control, it can only end one way... with a BOOM!
Review
"In all, a well-knit tale that hurtles down a logical path to a satisfying conclusion... Well worth a second chance." Kirkus Reviews
Review
"Adventure and quirky humor keep the pages turning." School Library Journal
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About the Author
Mark Haddon is a writer and illustrator of numerous award-winning children's books and television adaptations. As a young man, Haddon worked with autistic individuals. He currently teaches creative writing for the Arvon Foundation and at Oxford University. He lives in Oxford, England.