The characters are fairly simplistic, but that’s part of the overall charm - this really isn’t a book geared for adults or those looking for something pithy, but rather one that will be enjoyed by those who enjoy graphic novels, magazines like DMag, or cartoons. Despite the ease of reading, and the deliberate, almost dogmatic lightness of The OK Team, there are some serious and important themes dealt with. Empowerment and believing in yourself are two, along with an exploration of the power of teamwork and friendship, and the many different forms of strength and power. The varying narrative, slightly otherworldly Gotham city setting, and the overall positive messages makes this a good choice for young boys – particularly those who are struggling to enjoy the world of books.  That it also involves a fair amount of wish fulfillment also adds to this book's charm for children. 

Older readers around 16+ or those who are used to more serious novels, may find this a little too zany. My ten year old son, an excellent, high level reader, found it “puerile” – and that’s his word (and rich, considering his ongoing interest in Pokemon), but my eight year old son, also a good reader, loved it. So The OK Team isn’t a book for everyone. The point of view is Hazy’s and it’s definitely a male one. The one female superhero in the book, Liarbird (not counting the little sister), is a little shallow in her depiction, her powers notwithstanding. We know more about her great beauty and her ability to quip untrue one liners than we do about her background or motivations. But again, as a lighthearted read with an important underlying message, The OK Team provides an ideal option for lovers of comics, or boys who want an easy-to-read book full of innovative and fast pace plotting and plenty of humour. This is certainly one I would recommend for the reluctant male reader.

Drop by The Compulsive Reader Talks on or after the 1st of July to hear the Blogcritics interview with Nick Place.  

The OK Team
By Nick Place
Allen & Unwin
Paperback, Jan 2008, 264 pages, $A14.95, ISBN: 9781741751864