Adam Rex (aka Max Dare… if you like anagrams) gets a gold star and a gazillionbillion exclamation marks. And maybe, even, a couple of smiley faces.

His picture book, Pssst!, is wonderful, fabulous, and so very, very funny. The style of his pictures, the hilarious details, the surprise of the story blow me away.

It has everything a great picture book needs. An engaging story that keeps you reading. Strong characters that you care about and can relate to. Kid (and adult) friendly pictures with a definitive style and a clear focus. And, most importantly, a ‘zing’ at the end that leaves you satisfied.

These elements are much harder to weave together than they sound. It’s even harder to do it brilliantly. As a result, there are very few ‘perfect’ picture books out there. This is one of them

Adam Rex, you’re my hero.