The hard-edged style of the illustrations is reminiscent of William Joyce's work, but execution and concept are original variations on the type of fantasy that transports the central character into an alternative world. It all begins when Lucas, who "wore funny glasses and a strange hat, " is hosed down by Sid, the neighborhood meanie. Unable to strike back at him, Lucas instead attacks the ants with his squirt gun-and learns a hard lesson when he is forced into the ant colony, diminished in size, tried for his crimes, and sentenced to hard labor. Eventually, he wins the trust of his new companions and returns home. He lands at the feet of Sid the bully, but the reader is privy to what promises to be a triumphant outcome. Nickle has grounded his highly imaginative and very funny fantasy in scientific fact-if not always in scientific reality-as he depicts worker ants defending the colony from wasps and spiders, and drone ants attending the Queen. Adding to the impact is the book's strong anti-bully theme. In short, this picture story has everything: a bright, brassy palette, wonderful comic touches-like the Queen in her bath-and a great story. Bullies of the world, beware, for your punishment may be drawing near!