Creature Teacher

Creature Teacher is first in a new series that chronicles the school days of Jake and his classmates. Their new teacher, Mr Hyde, is rather different to what they are used to. His lessons are fun and exciting and he is quite prepared to spontaneously burst into song and dance whenever his students need enthusing. This strikes a stark contrast to the ferocious headteacher, Mrs Blunt, and her utter obsession with tiresome rules.

There is something else unusual about Mr Hyde, though, and, when an interactive science lesson gets out of hand, the pupils are introduced to a very different (and disgusting) side to their new teacher. This ‘creature’ must be kept secret from Mrs Blunt and her menacing followers or else Mr Hyde might not be allowed to carry on with his outstanding teaching.

As the classmates struggle to hide their new mischievous friend, readers are introduced to a cast of curious characters, including a slug-obsessed boffin and an evil, snooty-faced bully. Though the narrative features few moments of genuine drama or excitement, a silly (and snotty) tone is established that is sure to be maintained throughout the series.