Liō is naughty and inventive. He devises cool experiments that fool his father and get the better of bullies. He has a pet snake and octopus, but sometimes the animals fool him, even an alien or two. He has been known to associate with ‘Wild Things’ and vampires hold an endless fascination for him. He’s an awesome little dude and all without uttering one word!

This is a funny and offbeat graphic novel, and Liō has an Edward Gorey sensibility as he masterminds ingenious creations and hoodwinks those around him. Mark Tatulli’s cartoons are very clever and Liō is a hilarious and endearingly crafty kid who will have wide appeal, particularly for those who find reading a struggle.

This is a book that isn’t a battle and yet sneakily promotes reading, as books are Liō’s constant companions as he plans his cheeky contraptions. Young artists and cartoonists will also find plenty here to inspire them. Madcap fun for ages 6 and up.

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Alexa Dretzke