Mad Grandad and the Kleptoes

Something completely different from Oisin McGann, writer of the wonderful teen age novel, Under Fragile Stones.

 This time it is the tale of grandad whose life is plagued by than fact that things keep disappearing down the back of his sofa. Along comes grandson, Lenny, and together they solve the mystery of the hideous Kleptoes. Plenty of shivers, plenty of creepy crawlies, loads of wonderfully harsh illustrations. Likely to make nervous families decide on a new suite for the sitting room. A real scream-and-cuddle treat. Oh, Santa! By Stephanie Dagg Illustrated by Kim Shaw Mentor Books. €5.00 Ages 5 to 8 Stephanie Dagg's book Oh, Santa! is that very rare thing for younger readers, a very funny story tied to a very relevant issue. The funny story has to do with the fact that Santa has become obese from too much junk food. The solution, provided by Teddy Bear Jake, is a sturdy regime of correct diet and exercise. As often happens in such cases, Santa Claus becomes a slave to getting fit and healthy until he is no longer recognisable or, indeed , acceptable to all who know and love him. What's to be? The solution might raise one or two adult eyebrows but the kids will stand up and cheer. After all who wants to have a slim-line Santa?

Mad Grandad and the Kleptoes written and illustrated by Oisin McGann from the O'Brien Press  €5.95

Tony Hickey