Jo-Kin
vs Lord Terra by Karen Tyrrell (Digital Future
Press) PB RRP $14.95 ISBN 978-0-994-30213-7
Reviewed by Elizabeth Vercoe
The second book in the Super Space Kids
series sees reluctant hero and erstwhile Super Space Kid Josh (aka Jo-Kin),
called upon to step up and save not only his Commander’s younger sister and
other Super Space Kids, but the whole of planet Earth. It’s a bit of a bummer
though because it’s only recently that Josh has FINALLY been seen as a cool kid
at school, and he doesn’t want to leave for outer space. The timing’s pretty
terrible for a face-off with the evil Lord Terra and his stinking sidekick,
Prince Poison…
This inter-galactic romp has everything:
tough choices, talking cars that fly, heroic boys and girls, kidnapping,
battles with formidable foes and dissention among internal ranks. There’s
action-a-pace, annoying siblings, dodgy friends, heart-stopping adolescent
moments of infatuation and, of course, planets made entirely of food.
Jo-Kin
vs Lord Terra contains a smattering of many
issues that will be familiar to its 7-12 year old readership, touching on ideas
of doing the right thing, standing your ground, teamwork, friendship, problem
solving and resilience. There’s a lovely light, humorous touch throughout and
although one or two rogue words have escaped the editorial process, overall
it’s a happening and pacy read (although I have to personally admit finding it
hard to get into – middle-aged woman that I am!). With enough computer game
terminology to engage both boys and girls, it’s also appropriate for reluctant
readers.
