“Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space is a children’s book written by Toni Pike, suitable for ages six to ten. It describes how his mother was killed in a road accident when he was only a baby so he has no memories of her. However, Brody is living very happily with his father. As in many male households, they eat unhealthy ready meals, watch too much television and do not make much fuss about household chores. Brody doesn’t even have to do his homework if he doesn’t feel like it. Life is just fine, until the day his father arrives home from a conference with his new wife, Pandora. She has very different ideas about food, routine and sensible habits. Brody is horrified, then comes to the conclusion she must be an alien.

I loved Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space by Toni Pike. I like the rhyming of Brody Cody and I’m sure children will too; the book title in itself is an attraction. While younger children will be fascinated by the story, adults will see the hidden messages delivered tongue in cheek referring to healthy eating (even vegetables can taste nice), cleanliness and the benefits of doing homework. Brody’s new stepmother has eyes of different colors, and her arrival at the same time as the children witness a shooting star is absolute proof that she comes from outer space. In a step away from her normal thrillers for adults, author Toni Pike has hit the mark with this children’s book. It is a delight to read. I would highly recommend this book for parents and grandparents of children to read to and as a reading book. What can I say, I loved it. A well-deserved 5 stars.”