Children's Literature – Justina McBride
Timmy Failure, mastermind detective and symbol of greatness, is being forced to spend his spring break with Molly Moskins, a fellow classmate and notorious criminal of epic proportions. Of course, there is no rest for the wicked, and Timmy is currently working on his latest assignment: finding the stolen funds raised by the YIP YAP charity organization. It is practically an open and shut case, as his sole suspect is, obviously, Molly, who happens to be the charity’s treasurer. With their spring break travel barely underway, Molly confesses and hands over the money; but before Timmy can revel in his moment of glory, his friend Rollo informs him of another confession. A series of additional conflicting reports further complicate Timmy’s investigation and everything seems topsy-turvy in the world, as the bad turn good and the good turn bad. In book four of the “Timmy Failure” series, Pastis weaves an epic adventure tale of satire, absurdity, and humor. Timmy’s character embodies irony as the self-proclaimed know-it-all detective is constantly missing the obvious when it stares him in the face, which will leave readers in fits of laughter. Quite often, the irony of the text will be more appreciated by adults. Many of the chapter headings are parodies of familiar songs. The black-and-white cartoon sketches add additional hilarity to the text, while at times providing an explanation of it. Overall, each feature of this middle grade novel culminates to form a masterful comedy that will delight readers young and old. Reviewer: Justina McBride; Ages 8 to 12.