Mark Golding's Out of Time is a delightful romp through the realms of time and space, blending time travel, sleuthing, and adventure into a captivating tale for young and adult readers. At the story's heart is twelve-year-old Joe Jackson, a spirited adventurer with an insatiable curiosity. The narrative kicks off when Joe stumbles upon an old WWII bomb site, setting the stage for a series of extraordinary events. What makes Out of Time truly stand out is its imaginative fusion of time travel and quirky characters. Golding weaves a narrative that seamlessly combines historical elements, futuristic settings, and humor, creating a narrative that will appeal to a wider audience. Humor permeates the pages of this enthralling narrative, bringing lightness to the adventure and making it an engaging read for both children and adults. An exploration of a WWII bomb site transforms into a journey that takes Joe and his companions through different timelines, in the company of an alien with a unique mission.

The characters, led by the inquisitive Joe, are a lovable bunch that adds charm to the story. Max, the young alien, brings an element of the extraterrestrial into the mix, inspiring excitement in readers and the unpredictability of the journey through time and space. The collaboration with Mo and the Robinson family builds a camaraderie that enhances the overall appeal of the narrative. Golding's storytelling is brisk, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Joe, Max, and their friends encounter dinosaurs, Roman legionaries, and medieval knights. The suspenseful plot, combined with the author's knack for creating vivid and immersive settings, ensures that the adventure unfolds with both excitement and visual richness. Out of Time is not just a children's book; it's an imaginative exploration that transcends genres. Mark Golding has crafted a tale that sparks the imagination, leaving readers eager for the next adventure with Joe and his extraordinary companions. The conflict is explored at different levels and it propels the story forward in unexpected directions. This book packs surprises for readers, an adventure that keeps them turning the pages.