Official Review: Masterminders by Tara Basi

[Kristy Khem]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Masterminders" by Tara Basi.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Dry humor teams up with a series of atrocious characters in Tara Basi’s satirical novel, Masterminders. Set on a small island off Britain’s mainland, the storyline revolves around Terry and Bobby, two schoolboys who intelligently try to tackle a range of issues that affect them. Dubbed the 'Masterminders', the duo embarks on a succession of dodgy plans cooked up by quick-thinking Bobby as they comically try to solve women’s problems, contend with bullies on the playground, and even try to thwart the snowy weather by attempting to instigate global warming. The boys also rope in some of the island’s other residents to aid in their hilarious schemes such as the business-savvy Mr. Singh who is the owner of the Post Office cum Sweet and Chips Emporium. Apart from the boys’ funny shenanigans, they both face crippling family problems as Bobby’s dad is terminally ill and Terry’s mom is fighting a custody battle while working three jobs. The story is written from Terry’s often flummoxed and naive perspective, but this gives readers a genuine insight into life’s intangible truths like friendships, infatuation, poverty, death, and the challenges of growing up.

Very few books have ever made me laugh aloud, but this one certainly did. The deadpan humor was startling and childish in some cases, but it was still extremely enjoyable. For instance, the boys’ homemade women’s perfume (consisting of ewe’s colon, and a tin of curry powder) was a disgusting outrage to females everywhere, but the concoction was strangely powerful enough to dissolve layers of seagull poop from the butcher’s car! Another time, the boys pretended to be exceedingly religious so they could attract the girls they fancied, one of whom was a novice nun. I kept wondering about what funny scheme the boys’ would embark on next. I was not disappointed as each chapter provided me with more than enough literary amusement to keep me interested.

Aside from the comedic descriptions of the boys’ escapades, the characters in this book were shining gems of entertainment. Each one had distinct personalities and attributes which made them a joy to read about. The Indian culture in the book was attributed to Mr. Singh and his relatives. Bhangra music, Indian food, head waggling, saris, and volatile Indian women like Mummy-ji and Dimple added a touch of oriental spice to the book. One character, Mr. Dicklightly, was disturbingly funny. He seemed to be mildly paedophilic, but his antics were hilarious, such as when he read sensual scenes aloud (while naked) for public amusement and charity. Terry’s character was also admirable. His naivety, good-heartedness, and his naturally baffled nature were charming.

However, the thing which I really admired was the author’s ability to incorporate serious issues into the plot. Although the book was predominantly humorous, snippets of the boys’ backstories were present throughout it. I felt sad when I learned of Bobby’s sick father and the poverty that Terry’s mother was facing. At first, these were not made known directly, but their struggles were described in fleeting conversations, body language, and brief descriptions. These issues gave the book depth. It also made the plot more realistic and emotionally-moving.

There was nothing I disliked about this novel. It deserves 4 out of 4 stars for its witty humor, its memorable characters, and the characters' touching backstories. Furthermore, I think the book was edited fully because I had to try very hard to spot any errors. This book will appeal to a wide age group from older teens to elderly fans of humor and satire. It may not be suitable for younger audiences because it contains sexual innuendos.

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Masterminders
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Like KristyKhem's review? Post a comment saying so!

[kandscreeley]

I've read other novels by Tara Basi. She's a great author. This sounds like another of her great works. I love that it incorporates humor; I really am going to have to pick it up. Thanks so much for the review.

[spencermack]

Humour and great characters!? I'm in. Awesome review!

[Jaime Lync]

Great review! Makes me want to read this book right now...Thanks for sharing.

[chiefsimplex]

Wonderful! Pure craziness seems to be in abundance here ,yet the author weaves in some tragic facts.This is a great review,thanks for sharing.

[Prisallen]

I love books that are mostly humorous, but have an underlying serious side to it, as well. I will have to add this one to my list of books to read. Great review!

[Rose Harebate]

I like the fact that the book, though holding themes like poverty, death, and the challenges of growing up, is fun to read. Thanks for a great review.

[Crazyreader01]

This sounds like a laugh. Definitely a more light hearted read. Thanks for the review!

[Radiant3]

The story seems to have the right combination of humour and fun, with some serious aspects. This should be a great book to read. Very thorough review.

[Kristy Khem]

The story seems to have the right combination of humour and fun, with some serious aspects. This should be a great book to read. Very thorough review.

Thank you!

[Kristy Khem]

I love books that are mostly humorous, but have an underlying serious side to it, as well. I will have to add this one to my list of books to read. Great review!

You'll definitely enjoy this book Prisallen! Thanks for stopping by to add a comment.

[Stephanie Elizabeth]

This book sounds quite entertaining! I like how the boys always have great intentions, but end up getting themselves into tricky situations. I had to laugh at the perfume situation; as foul-smelling as it was, it proved to be a great cleaning concoction. Great review!

[gali]

A story chronicling the escapades of two young kids at their Catholic school sounds entertaining. Witty humor, memorable characters, and powerful themes make this a worthy read. That it was well edited is another plus. Well done to the author for managing to incorporate serious themes into the humorous plot. I am not fond of satire, but I am glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for the review!

[Amy+++]

After reading a fee pages of the sample, I just couldn't get into the book.

[Ferdinand_Otieno]

I am a big fan of satirical books and this one did not disappoint in the least. Another excellent book by Tara Basi, coupled with an amazingly inciteful review.