It almost feels weird to say this, but in a very clever and entertaining episode of 'The Simpsons' (Sun., 8PM ET on FOX), Homer develops a plan to make a fortune by churning out a tween novel by committee. Popular fantasy author Neil Gaiman played himself, as an existing author wanting in on the scheme.

The entire episode was framed as a heist, with Homer assembling his team, writing the novel and getting it published. The head of the publishing house was in place as the evil villain, while Gaiman proved to be the cleverest of them all, duping everyone by getting the book ultimately published under his own name.

So why was this episode so much more fun than usual? We think it has to do with the format and the playfulness in the presentation. After two decades, it pays to shake things up and give us a completely fresh look at the show. Even the team created some new combinations from the massive Springfield citizenry. Maybe they should consider doing that more often.