Fortunately, the Milk

According to Dad, he was abducted by aliens who wanted to remodel the planet, escaped by jumping through a hole in space and time, and was rescued by a scientist who happens to be a stegosaurus travelling in a hot-air balloon of his own invention. From there the adventures grow more absurd: pirates, a strange island ceremony and wumpires all appear, and through it all Dad protects the carton of milk.

The children listen sceptically, pointing out problems with his story, which adds to the comedy. Neil Gaiman plays with time travel paradoxes and classic adventure clichés, and the story is full of jokes for both children and adults. Skottie Young's energetic black-and-white illustrations appear on almost every page and add enormously to the fun. The tone is light throughout, and the book celebrates storytelling and imagination.

Short, silly and hugely entertaining, perfect for reading aloud. It works well for reluctant readers, and parents often enjoy it as much as their children do, especially the ending. The short chapters and constant surprises keep even restless listeners hooked. About 128 pages in the HarperCollins paperback, with illustrations by Skottie Young.