🌪️ Comic Review: Dennis the Menace and Gnasher #3: Menace Goes Wild by Nigel Auchterlounie (Kindle & comiXology Edition)
A whirlwind of wild antics, monster laughs, and classic Beano chaos—this issue delivers Dennis and Gnasher at their most unpredictable, with roller coasters, pirates, Halloween hijinks, and even elephants thrown into the mix.
🧠 Overview
Published in March 2015, Menace Goes Wild is the third issue in The Beano presents Dennis the Menace and Gnasher comic series, written by Nigel Auchterlounie and illustrated by Nigel Parkinson. This 23-page comic features a collection of short, punchy stories that showcase Dennis and Gnasher’s signature brand of mischief—this time with a monster-sized dose of wildness.
From a roller coaster riot to pirate peril on the high street, Dennis and Gnasher bring their unstoppable energy to every page. Add in some Halloween high-jinks and elephant-astic fun, and you’ve got a comic that’s bursting with laughs and cheeky charm.
🎯 Key Highlights
- 🎢 Roller coaster riot: Dennis turns a thrill ride into a full-blown disaster zone
- 🏴☠️ Pirate antics: Expect swashbuckling silliness—on land, not sea
- 🎃 Halloween hijinks: Costumes, candy, and chaos collide in classic Beano style
- 🐘 Elephant-astic fun: Yes, there are elephants. And yes, they’re menaced
- 🎨 Expressive artwork: Nigel Parkinson’s illustrations are bold, dynamic, and full of comic energy
💬 Reader Reception
- ⭐ Goodreads rating: 4.52/5 from over 70 ratings
- 📖 Readers love the comic’s nostalgic humor, fast-paced storytelling, and kid-friendly mischief
- 🧾 Ideal for ages 7–12, but also a hit with adult fans of classic British comics
- 💬 “Brilliant! I really love the Beano so being able to go back to the first few is a delight for me.” — Goodreads reviewer
⚠️ Considerations
- 📄 Short format: At 23 pages, it’s a quick read—best enjoyed as a snack-sized comic adventure
- 📚 Part of a series: Works as a standalone, but even better when read alongside other volumes in the 13-book collection
- 🇬🇧 British humor: Full of puns, slapstick, and cultural references that may be more familiar to UK readers
🏁 Final Verdict
Menace Goes Wild is a lively and laugh-out-loud comic that captures the timeless spirit of Dennis the Menace and Gnasher. With its wild scenarios, cheeky humor, and energetic artwork, it’s a perfect pick for young readers and nostalgic fans alike. Whether you’re new to Beanotown or a lifelong Menace, this issue delivers monster laughs and menacing fun.
