Imagine being kidnapped by space aliens to perform brain surgery on their leader when you do not possess the skills to do so. Luckily, your family is just a phone call away. Despite some hard feelings toward his missing brother, Sour Croodleman agrees to partner up with relatives to help save the day. The message is clear: when tough things happen, the family rallies in every way possible, including bringing sustenance.

To say this book is silly (in a good way) would be true. But in one sense, such a statement is misleading due to what is below the story’s surface. Yes, Snoodles and Krautmobiles and vehicles fueled by pasta are far out there, imagination-wise, but the underlying messages of family, loyalty, and the greater good make this book a delicious read. This zany look at the world is pure fun, and anyone who picks up the book will undoubtedly want to meet the author. His sense of humor and imagination are unparalleled. Joseph created this back-to-the-future tale in two parts, and while the current volume is technically a sequel, it can also be read as a standalone.

Part graphic novel and part fantastic futuristic fiction, the entire book also stands out as tongue-twisting literature. For example, reading "...prickly peppered purple propulsion powered pickle" out loud without stumbling can be challenging. The book would make a great party game. Joseph’s text is enhanced with colorful illustrations by Andy Case. These lively and fun drawings fit the text perfectly, solidify the story, and lift the narrative from good to outstanding. The author ends the book with a cliffhanger, foreshadowing perhaps a third book in the making. Fans of this family-oriented, food-fueled read will likely be drooling for the next one.

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