Biff is a humongous, pink, fuzzy monster. He has three eyes, shark-like teeth, a feather Mohawk, and enormous claws. But don't worry-he hasn't come to shred Ashton, the monster is there to help! Ashton admits that he's having a rough start to junior high. It's undeniable really. He's managed to tick off the queen bee, Bridget Bentley, somehow attracted the attention of the very strange Finch the Bizarro, gotten in trouble with Principal Surlaw (the dreaded Principotamus), and managed to knock out his front tooth before first period even started. So maybe he does need help-but what can a monster named Biff do? It turns out that Biff is there to take Ashton on a fantastic journey. Together, the two of them must venture to the world of Akrylica and help save the Smearkats from an evil force. Only Ashton can save the world, and he's going to have to learn how to overcome his own anxieties and fears if he has a hope of defeating the darkness ahead-on Akrylica and back at home. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perfect for children starting middle school themselves. Intended as a way to bridge the gap between comic books and prose, its visual, kinetic style will be a delight to any reader!