The literary world is known for taking itself seriously. You see a lot of books with the words 'FREEDOM' emblazoned on their covers. Titles are often pretty self-important. Which is why I enjoyed Bad Monkeys so much. It is different. It does not sit in one genre. It's an adventure book, it's fairly political, it's about good and evil, it read like a cartoon for adults.
First impressions were good too. Generally I like to be known as an individual, to not buy into institutions or live clichés, but let me just go with the masses for a moment and judge a book by its cover. What's not to like about the boisterous and charming cover on this boisterous and charming book? Think fifties comic books where girls and boys look like dolls. It looks like a children's book, with its bright colours and whimsical feel. I love the covers of children's books, because they have none of the self-importance of adult books. They're fun.
And Matt Ruff. Doesn't Matt Ruff sound like someone who would pen a funny, irreverent, indie-type book? Yes. Ruff. It's like the bark of a dog. If Bad Monkeys was a dog it would be a whippet. It seems slim because it has a quick pace. This is the kind of book you could read in an afternoon, zip through happily and recommend to others.
I should probably mention the plot: Bad Monkeys protagonist Jane Charlotte, arrested for murder, claims to be a member of 'Bad Monkeys' (hence the title, duh), a secret organisation dedicated to fighting evil. Sent to the psychiatric ward, Jane narrates the story of how she came to be a badass, crime-fighter. Do we believe her? Did she commit murder? Is she freakin' crazy??
Bad Monkeys is refreshing, because it is a children's adventure story written for adults. It's darkly funny, and a great read. It makes a point at the end, but doesn't push it too hard home, and it's pleasant to read something that doesn't take itself too seriously.
I'm surprised it hasn't yet been made into a film. Here's hoping. I'd love to see Bad Monkeysin action.
This is a gripping, funny, irreverent and intelligent novel that's accessible and a delight to read. Take it for a ride with you on the train to work today.
Bad Monkeys is available in paperback from Amazon (click here) and on Kindle here.
Abby's novel FLICK is available to buy - signed - from Amazon here and on Kindle here.