Tag Archives: humor

Fartasaurus by Milt Lowe (Book Review)

Fartasaurus is a young T-Rex dinosaur who has to leave his loving family for one year— according to dinosaur tribal law—because of his constant, embarrassing farting. (He even farted out the candles on his birthday cake!) 

Sent to live in a deep, dark forest,  the fun-loving farting dinosaur meets a wild and wacky group of other dinosaur misfits that bond over their uniqueness and discovers the value of friendship.

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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Farting is a normal part of our digestion system. It reduces belly pain from bloating. It can help alert patients and doctors of possible underlying health conditions. Whether you toot soft or loud or squeak out a silent but deadly fat, most of us agree that letting one rip usually leads to laughter. Well, unless you are a dinosaur that lived 200 million years ago. Dinos back then had a strong reaction to Fartasaurus breaking wind all the time, and it was not laughing out loud.

When you have a birthday cake, you normally blow out the candles with air coming from your mouth. Fartasaurus chose to blow them out with his rear end. Yes, readers, he broke wind and the gust of air extinguished his two birthday candles. I found this disgustingly funny! Kids will too! Unfortunately, the tribal leaders didn’t find Fartasaurus’s gassy booty funny in the slightest bit. As punishment for being an “embarrassment,” he was banished to the Forest of the Unwanted for one year. Poor T-Rex! Poor parents! All smiles will vanish when you see the three T-Rex faces’ sad looks. Heartbreaking!

As Fartasuiarus enters the Forest of the Unwanted, he’s met by other “misfits.” Their names coincide with their embarrassing acts. Without spilling the beans about every uniquely named prehistoric animal, I will disclose ONE—a small taste of the hilarity that awaits you.


“And once a day, Roarasaurus let out a roar that caused giant rocks to fall down a huge mountain and frighten all the dinosaurs, many of them running into one another and looking even sillier.”


As you read the above passage, I hope you envisioned two dinosaurs colliding as a triceratops roars close by, as that is the illustration that accompanies it.

They say that time flies when you are having fun. I think Fartarsaurus would agree. Once he befriended another dino in the forest, time zoomed by, and before he knew it, he was walking out of the Forest of the Unwanted. (Name withheld to avoid spoilers.)

 

Do you think farts are funny?

Do you like dinosaurs?

If you answered yes, then you’ll love Fartasaurus. I sure did!

The story idea was different and very funny. I enjoyed most of the illustrations, but I noticed some images looked off. For example, the brown dinosaur on the “best friends forever” page looked strange. The eyes seemed off. Also, the triceratops drawings needed to be more consistent. On the roaring panel, he had points on the edges of their frill, but they wre absent on the exit the forest page.

All in all, this was a very nice, short read. Perfect for dino fans and, of course, those who think farts are hilarious.

Amazon’s recommended age is 4-9 hours.

 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

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Meet the Author

A former copywriter at top New York City advertising agencies, Milt Lowe has won over 60 major awards -including Gold and Silver Lions at the TV Cannes Film Festival – and has written humor pieces for The New York Daily News and Advertising Age. Milt has written four children’s books so far.

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Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools by W.T. Kosmos (Book Review)

A divided nation has a ludicrous new hope.

 

Welcome to Island Nation, where powerful knuckleheads have turned schools into battlegrounds between the Puddin’ Heads and Sweeties. Amidst this turmoil, hope emerges in the form of a courageous teen on a mission to lead the nation’s schools. Narrated by a sarcastic teacher, this 2023 Mark Twain Book Award finalist is a “gloriously absurd” adventure (Kirkus Reviews) in the spirit of George Orwell, Douglas Adams, and Terry Pratchett. Dive into a world of social absurdities and laugh-out-loud moments in this sharp, satirical romp through the madness of modern life.

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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Our nation is divided. People on the right and left sides of the aisle can’t come together and agree 100% on anything. Their gut reaction to hearing the opposing side draft an idea is to say, “No.” Every day, the U.S. is taking giant steps back. Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools take creative liberties over things that have occurred throughout history. That is happening today! In this chapter book, people are grouped into two categories: Smalls and Bigs. This grouping is related to a person’s hand size. Big-handed people are seen as “lesser than” beings and have more restrictions put upon them. They couldn’t lead anything, such as teams or bands, and had to pay higher school fees. Many BIGS drop out of school over the high fees.

Past or present, we’ve all witnessed people in power make decisions that suit their agendas. Citizens have lost some of their rights because of it. As our next BIG election nears, we could see more of our freedoms vanish. Blaze and Chopper are two teens who are ready to help make change happen in their fictional world. But, like in the real world, change won’t happen if brave individuals don’t stand up for their rights. Blaze and their growing numbers of supporters want the three F’s: freedom, fairness, and fabulous schools. Students, teachers, and parents do not want absurd rules thrust upon them.

What they do want is this: Stop with the book bans. Stop rewriting history. Encourage free thinkers. Executives should not be swimming in cash while middle and lower-class individuals fight to pay medical bills and school fees.

 

Blaze (Puddin’ Head) and Kai (Sweetie) were adversaries, each blaming all their problems on the opposing side. After visiting the five regions and seeing each other’s schools in action, they realized this was not a one-sided problem. It was a universal issue. The narrator quickly learned that there were schools worse off than theirs. Kai, Blaze, and Chopper soon realized that some schools, their curriculum, and their leaders were bat-shit crazy. (Talkin’ like a pirate School Boss J.R. as one example!)

 

Here’s one crazy school scene from each side

Cape Freedom, Puddin’ Head Region 3: Students are forced to eat spicy chips and boosters of varying degrees. Goal: They must handle the heat for one minute without drinking water. The longer they forego liquid assistance, the stronger the immunity from the Sweetie Zombies. An absurd idea, right?! Here’s another: At Sweetie Experimental High School, students are forced to handle extremely hot peppers (like the ghost pepper) with zero protective gear. This school was permanently harming and disfiguring their students. Another absurd idea! (Remember, readers, the author promised absurdity. *smiley face*)

 

Kai, Blaze, and Chopper didn’t have time or resources to tour every school; they agreed that there were good teachers out there, but things still needed to change. For that to happen, they needed cash. The supreme prime minister decided that whoever won the football (aka soccer) game would win the ultimate prize: Noble Deed for each winning team member. Their represented leader would be granted a hefty budget, too. The Sweeties versus Puddin’ game had a very shocking and funny moment. The game’s conflicting results set the stage for what would happen next. Hint: The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

 

The author and narrator promised absurdity, and they delivered. I laughed at many scenes and dialogue. I’m going to find a way to include “Moldy fart tart” in a future conversation. While this story is built around absurdities, it does touch upon things in real life: demands to “build a wall,” banning books, political leaders doubling down on lies, and leaders with NO educational degree deciding what should or should not be taught in schools. The characters demonstrate that both sides (red and blue) can come together harmoniously for the betterment of all! Readers, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for change. And remember to work with others instead of butting heads with them. Oh, and thank your lucky stars, you don’t have to play tag like the students had to at Hard Rocks High School.


Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools had comedic moments, but sometimes, the book moved at a snail’s pace. Also, a noogie between friends is done in jest, but Kai and Blaze were not friends and opposite sexes; therefore, I do not think Kai (boy) should’ve given Blaze (girl) a noogie. Some people (I won’t say which side of the aisle) might have issues with kids laying hands on the school boss, causing him to break several bones. Burning of school property might also be a hot-button item for some individuals. 

The recommended reading age for the satirical fiction story is 12-18 years.

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

W.T. Kosmos is a humorist author and playwright whose works include the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, the Maya and Waggers series, and The Golden One. W.T. Kosmos is the wry alter ego (pen name) of a life-long educator.

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Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

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The Golden One: A Comedy by W.T. Kosmos (Play Review)

WANTED: A GOLDEN LEADER TO RESTORE THE MONARCHY

 

The Golden One is a one-act satirical comedy that lampoons loyalty to authoritarian figures, intolerance, and environmental mayhem. After the monarchy falls, the Lumberjack Leprechauns hold a costume contest to find their next golden leader.

For generations, the loyal Lumberjack Leprechauns have followed their king’s orders to find the great pot o’ gold buried underneath trees. But when President Leafhopper, an ally of the dreaded Tree Huggers, wins the first democratic election and enforces deforestation regulations, their world is turned upside down. With their leader Stumpsharp captured after a disastrous attempt to storm the castle, Axestorm, Chopwit, and Sawdunce devise an ingenious method for finding their next golden leader: a costume contest in the North Woods. Ingenious, that is, until eccentric contestants and a lively audience challenge their quest to restore the monarchy.

 

W.T. Kosmos, humorist author of the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, presents his debut play for teens and adults, designed for 6 to 15 actors and minimal props.


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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

The Golden One is a one-act satirical comedy whose roles are not gender-specific, as the author states in the “Directing Notes.” The writer also states that this play is designed for six or more actors with minimal props needed.

Tis true, there are some props that many theater groups will have no trouble acquiring, such as the spoons and pan hat for Thumper or a robe for the Guide. I also suspect finding or making green goggles wouldn’t be hard. But the uniquely designed catapult? The writer does provide “notes” on it. I suspect many production companies would not want to rely on puppets or shadow play. They might want to tackle something more dynamic. I’m not sure how they’d bring the leprechaun catapult scene to life, but I’m sure any end product will amaze the audience. (Read the play to find out more about it.) Oh, and depending on the actors’ closets, they might have on-hand costumes the contestants wore in front of the judges: the Lumberjack Leprechauns.

Speaking of the leprechauns, they are holding a costume contest to find “The Golden One.” This chosen person will help them storm the castle, oust the prez, release their leader Stumpsharp, and restore the monarchy. Why? The lumberjacks want to chop down as many trees as much as they like, find the pot o’ gold, and end democracy. Hefty goals! Do they achieve their goals? You’ll find that out once you read the play!

Actors will undoubtedly have a blast playing any role in this comedic masterpiece. The audience will laugh as they listen to the judge’s bickering and watch as Pig and Sheep approach the judge’s table or listen to the Nurse whine about her thirst. They’ll especially get a kick out of Thumper’s battle gear. And Willow’s interaction with the judges will have viewers on the edge of their seats!

There is a lot of comedy in the one-act play. There is also political undertones. Mainly, what’s the point of democracy? Adults know the answer to that, but kids might not. President Leafhopper breaks it down as he attempts to prove why the judges should select him as the winner! Does he win the coveted prize? Read the play and find out!

While I enjoyed reading the play, certain scenes would only be fully appreciated if acted out on stage or screen. I’m not sure how the two versions of the storming of the castle would play out on a stage, but I would love a theatre company to give it a go. I would even watch a cartoon, live-action TV show, or cinema version. I’m not picky; someone, please make this happen!

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: 
 
 
 
 
 

Meet the Author

W.T. Kosmos is a humorist author and playwright whose works include the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, the Maya and Waggers series, and The Golden One. W.T. Kosmos is the wry alter ego (pen name) of a life-long educator.

Website Link

Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

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Deadpool and Wolverine (3 Comic Book Spotlight)

 Deadpool and Wolverine’s movie is out! Hooray! 

Go watch the movie, but first…order these comics! 

 

Uncover the wiles and insights of the Merc with a Mouth in this lavishly presented collection of Deadpool’s best, worst and frankly outrageous moments from his comic book history.

Deadpool: a mystery wrapped in an enigma wrapped in a frankfurter skin suit. Even he doesn’t know what the *?@$ is going on in his brain! In this little guide to everyone’s favorite mercenary, discover what makes the katana-wielding, gun-toting, insult-firing anti-hero tick, or maybe more accurately in his case, tock.

With a collection of the greatest comic book covers, scenes we love to remember (or forget, depending on your disposition), and the musings of our morally confused comrade, there’s sure to be some wisdom gained from the ravings of a psychotic killer who cracks wise more than a comedian on Prozac.

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Wolverine. Logan. Weapon X. By any name, Marvel Comic’s savage, brooding antihero is, in his own words, the best at what he does–killing with gratuitous precision. Paradoxically violent yet humane, the beer-swilling, cigar-smoking mutant with retractable claws is universally misjudged in the Marvel Universe yet esteemed by fans worldwide.

The author explores Wolverine’s development from bit character to modern legend over more than four decades, with a focus on his enduring appeal as an allegory for resilience through torment.

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WADE WILSON AND LOGAN AT THE ENDS OF THE EARTH – AND EACH OTHER’S THROATS! The most intensely mismatched team-up in comics and pop culture – the best there is and the merc with the mouth – undergoes a radical change as we kick off a three-part, globe-spanning saga for the ages! The mysterious DELTA believes in change. Change is good. But as he sets his sights on DEADPOOL, and WOLVERINE is caught up in the plot, is the third time really the charm, or the curse? Get ready for WWIII to erupt on the scene with the wildest duo in comics from legends Joe Kelly (DEADPOOL, UNCANNY X-MEN) and Adam Kubert (WOLVERINE, UNCANNY X-MEN)! Rated T+

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Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? by W. T. Kosmos (Audiobook Spotlight)


Enjoy the audiobook version of the critically acclaimed Maya and Waggers, read by Courtney Fabrizio, whose previous narrations include Nickelodeon Blue’s Clues and Paw Patrol. Courtney showcases an incredible range of funny and at times crazy characters in this series opener that has been hailed as “a hilarious tale about canine care” (Kirkus Reviews) and “a delightful read packed with humor and lessons about life” (The Book Commentary).

“I Have to Scoop What?” is a wild adventure for ages 7+ that unfolds on wacky Puddin’ Head Island—an island completely unprepared for a shipload of newly arrived dogs and puppies.

Maya and her best friend Lily are over the moon about caring for the new rescue puppy, Waggers. They even stay with Maya’s Uncle Puddin’ Head, whose love for his perfect lawn is as big as his dislike for the Sweeties. But there are just two problems. First, Maya refuses to scoop Waggers’ poop and comes up with crazy ways to deal with it in the neighbors’ yards. Let’s just say, the wacky neighbors aren’t very happy about it! Second, little does Uncle Puddin’ Head know, Lily is a Sweetie, hidden in plain sight!

Whether you’re looking for a story filled with laughter or one that teaches life lessons with heart and humor, this adventure is sure to delight and inspire

 

Audiobook Purchase Link

Listening Length: 2 hours

 

 

Chapter One Sample

Author’s note: “I love Courtney Fabrizio’s character voices! This scene sets up the rest of the book.”

 

 

 

Chapter 6 Sample: The Barkers

Author’s note: “This was my favorite chapter to write and listen to! Maya seeks a place for Waggers to poop. This was the wrong neighbor. Minimal spoilers.”

 

 

Audiobook Purchase Link

Listening Length: 2 hours

 

 

Click on any of the following links to be redirected to my review!

Amazon
Goodreads

Reedsy

 

Audiobook Purchase Link

Listening Length: 2 hours

 

 

Meet the Author

W.T. Kosmos is a humorist author and playwright whose works include the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, the Maya and Waggers series, and The Golden One. W.T. Kosmos is the wry alter ego (pen name) of a life-long educator.

Website Link

Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

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