SPYGLASS: Mastermind of Mayhem by David Solomons

Fast-paced, gadget-packed, and laugh-out-loud funny, SPYGLASS is the first in a new middle-grade series (perfect for readers aged 8–12), following Adam Stickland, his friends Zada and Tyler, and his dog, Rocket.

Working at his parents’ holiday park, Adam’s summer looks set to be a dull one — until his mum sends the trio to deliver groceries to a mysterious new neighbour at the suitably creepy Spyglass Manor… and that’s where all the fun begins.

The friends are quickly swept into a gloriously over-the-top adventure that never lets up: a world of spies, supervillains, flying bikes, robot sharks, and a whole host of ridiculous gadgets. The tone is joyfully playful throughout, with plenty of sly nods to spy films (the Quantum of Shoelaces is a highlight), and a steady stream of running jokes — particularly the wonderfully overblown acronym-based organisations.

Illustrations by Miguel Diaz Rivas add to the pace and accessibility, helping to keep the story moving at speed. The book never takes itself too seriously, and that’s exactly its strength — the energy and sense of fun carry it from start to finish. In fact, this is a perfect example of how reading can be pure entertainment – it is fitting that it is being released during the National Year of Reading which seeks to promote reading for fun particularly with younger readers.

An ideal pick for our younger readers who are looking for action, jokes, a healthy dose of silliness, and ultimately something to read for fun.