The invasion of Pokopen continues apace in SGT. FROG Vol. 2 (Tokyopop), if, by “apace,” you mean “entirely haphazardly.” Let me give you an example of what you’re missing if you haven’t given this quirky and hysterical manga a try. Junior high-schoolers Fuyuki and Momoka have stumbled upon the secret underground headquarters of the Pokopen invasion force (conveniently located under Fuyuki’s suburban home). Missiles are flying through the corridors of the heavily defended facility. On one of the corridor walls is a sign, featuring a jaunty and winking drawing of Keroro (the amphibian sergeant in question), and the text: “Please… keep horseplay to a minimum.” And that’s just one of the throw-away gags.
I’ve actually come across a Christopher Moore book I don’t like. Having read and really enjoyed Lamb, Island of the Sequined Love Nun, and Practical Demonkeeping, I’ve struck out with Coyote Blue. I think the problem is the protagonist, who lacks the off-kilter decency Moore usually gives his leads. It just seems like a rather shrill, long yuppie joke.
I did much better with Guard! Guards!, one of Terry Pratchett’s reliably wonderful Discworld books. I’m devouring these at an alarming rate, but there are still plenty to come. How did it take me so long to find out about these?