Challenge #18 ~ “A book with a location in the title.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
My opinion in three sentences:
Hands down a book you should read – it doesn’t matter what kind of things you’re into, or how old you are, this book is for you. Cottrell reimagines every random household object you can think of in an innovative and quirky (yet heartwarming to the max) story. It doesn’t matter that there’s a ‘talking’ dog or that it’s target audience is middle grade, Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth is beautifully-written with some really strong characters, and some beautiful accompanying artwork too!
(Without spoiling anything) the best bit:
The imagination behind the storyline is great. At it’s core, sure, it’s just a kid finding his feet now that his grandpa is no longer in his life so much, but Cottrell throws in his own twists to make it funny, heart-wrenching, downright bizarre and yet a coherent, enjoyable book. There’s nothing too much I can say without giving some of it away, but trust me, it’s worth it.
A warning for the book:
There’s no way you can look at certain objects the same way after reading this book. And you’ll always be consulting the manual!
Recommended for fans of:
- Small Change for Stuart by Lissa Evans
- Aquila by Andrew Norriss
- My Grandmother Sends Her Regards and Apologises by Fredrik Backman
Dreaming With Your Eyes Wide Open 