New readers have a treat in store for them with Mortimer Keene: Attack of the Slime.

A wave of green slime attacks St Barnabas’ School, chasing pupils and teachers alike, filling up the classrooms with its foul-smelling tendrils. Some enterprising teachers discover the source: Mortimer Keene, the small kid with BIG ideas, and a home-made slime generator.

Tim Healey’s witty rhyming text bounces along in this heavily illustrated early reader, which is one of a series. There’s also a handy A-Z of slime in the back for future reference. Chris Mould’s pictures are suitably inventive and brought to life with a good helping of bright lime green spot colour. An Edward Gorey book for the very young.

If you like this try Captain Underpants.

Published by Hachette Children’s Group. RRP £4.99