Preview: Meet Timmy Failure, the clueless yet confident 11-year-old "detective" who runs Total Failure, Inc., with his polar bear partner Total. From tracking down missing Halloween candy to solving the mystery of his mom's stolen Segway, Timmy's over-the-top schemes and hilarious misadventures will have readers laughing out loud. Will Timmy ever crack a real case—or will his detective agency live up to its name?
Perfect for readers, who:
• Enjoy slapstick humor and quirky characters
• Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Big Nate
• Want fast-paced, illustrated comedy with heart
Why You'll Love It: ✅ Stephan Pastis' signature deadpan humor and doodle-style illustrations ✅ Timmy's outrageous confidence despite constant failures ✅ Teaches resilience through laughter
Also consider the below aspects before you select: ❌ Some absurdist humor may go over younger readers' heads ❌ Main character never learns from mistakes (intentional comic device)
Verdict: Ideal for middle graders who love underdog heroes and belly-laugh moments!
