Here we find our two droll but humorous heroes Mildew and Sponge from Maudlin Towers, a school ‘for not Particularly Bright Sons of the Not Particularly Wealthy’, stumbling across a new adventure. While out jogging (not their favourite pastime) they see a meteor fall from the sky. Taking a closer look, they discover a rocket from another planet.

Meanwhile, back at Maudlin Towers a carriage full of girls turn up on their doorstep with a cry for help. They are unable to proceed with their journey and need somewhere to stay while their vehicle is being fixed. Girls at Maudlin Towers! ‘What shall we do with them’ ponder the boys. ‘Let them join in your classes’ the headmaster suggests. ‘Girls in our classes!’ gasps the boys … what next!

Indeed, what next! As their adventure unfolds, the boys and their cohorts scramble to save their teachers from the treachery of alien beings. They once again depend on the time machine to help solve their dilemma.

Attack of the Meteor Monsters is the third book in the ‘Maudlin Towers’ series and produces many a good chuckle. This is not a book that is stand-alone and it’s recommended that you read the previous two books in the series first. The dialogue is lively and entertaining. While reading, I kept imagining that this story could adapt very well as a stage play.

Reviewed by Cathy d’Apice
Age Guide 9+