Barker Mifflin never leaves home without his go bag, army boots and trusty fly swatter. As the town of Nevermind’s resident eleven-year-old survivalist, Barker knows catastrophe can strike anytime, anywhere. But now that school is out for the summer, he might be able to let his guard down. After all, he and his friends all got jobs picking strawberries at McFadden Farm. What could possibly go wrong?

Join Barker Mifflin as he pieces together a forty-foot-tall mystery hidden in the barn that could crush the whole town of Nevermind. No amount of training could prepare anyone to survive this!

This animating, fast-paced adventure will give readers a thrill. Written in first-person point, it’s clever with a quirky protagonist whose blunt, bold comments make it fun.
The story is pretty straightforward. Though it is the second instalment in a series, the plot stands on its own. My personal favorite in every chapter is the list of rules Barker makes up for every situation he is about to meet.

Supporting characters are well introduced, their roles played well. Attention to detail is impressive. The setting, which includes a weird but organized community, is distinctive in a light way.
The only downside is the ending, which is vague or cryptic, probably in preparation for another sequel. Nevertheless, the book offers a fun, adrenaline-filled, high-octane escapade, which compensates for the ending.

It is a short book I am sure middle graders will look forward to. Even teens looking for a quick, audacious read will enjoy it. Highly recommended!

– Kevin Velayo