Title: Awful Auntie
Author: David Walliams
First published November 27, 2012
416 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 978000794445
Rating: 4.15
Overview
Meticulous Uncle Eugene and his loyal pet dog, Gatsby, are scheming to take over the vast fortune and luxurious mansion of young Master Jameson. But with the help of a mischievous and playful ghost named Boogie, who happens to be a disco dancer from the 1970s, Jameson is determined to get his rightful inheritance back.
In this heartwarming tale, sometimes all it takes is an unusual friend to triumph over adversity.
About the Author
Meet David Walliams, the talented actor and writer who has made a name for himself through his work with Matt Lucas in the hilariously funny and multi-award-winning sketch show, Little Britain. While many love him for his acting, Walliams is also an accomplished children’s author.
In 2008, he published his debut novel for kids, The Boy in the Dress, which was met with rave reviews from critics. Since then, he’s been compared to the legendary Roald Dahl and has become a beloved figure in children’s literature.
Editoral Review
Awful Auntie by David Walliams is a thrilling and entertaining children’s book that tells the story of a young girl named Stella Saxby who inherits her family’s estate after her parents die in a car crash. However, her aunt Alberta, who is desperate to take control of the estate and inherit its riches, makes Stella’s life a living nightmare, locking her up in her room and claiming that her parents are still alive.
David Walliams, who is also known for his acting and comedy skills, has written a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, introducing themes of family, greed, and perseverance. Walliams is a British author who has been writing children’s books since 2008, and Awful Auntie is one of his most popular and successful works.
The book was first published in November 2012 and has since become a hit with children and adults alike, winning numerous awards and accolades. The book is a work of fiction, bridging genres such as comedy, mystery, and adventure, with a dash of horror thrown in for good measure.
The plot of Awful Auntie is captivating from start to finish. Stella Saxby, the main character, is a smart and resourceful girl who is trapped in her own home by her wicked aunt, Alberta.
Stella’s fight to escape from her aunt’s clutches is both thrilling and satisfying, as she faces numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. The book’s setting, which is an old, decrepit mansion in the English countryside, adds to the story’s atmosphere, making it feel like a classic, Gothic tale with a modern twist.
One of the strengths of the book is its character development, particularly that of Stella Saxby. Stella is a brave and resilient protagonist who learns to overcome her fears and stand up for herself against the odds.
Walliams also develops the character of Alberta, who is a villainous aunt with a complex backstory that is slowly revealed throughout the book. Walliams also introduces some interesting secondary characters, such as Gibbon, a ghost who inhabits the mansion, and Wagner, Alberta’s owl, who has a personality and a backstory of his own.
In terms of the writing style, Walliams uses a simple and accessible language that appeals to children of all ages, but also has some clever wordplay and humor that is enjoyable for adults. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, with a mix of action-packed scenes and slower, more contemplative moments.
The plot structure is also well-crafted, with some unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged. If the book has any flaws, it might be that some of the plot points are a bit predictable, and the characters can sometimes feel a bit one-dimensional.
However, these are minor issues that do not detract from the book’s overall quality. In conclusion, Awful Auntie by David Walliams is a delightful and entertaining children’s book that is well worth a read.
It offers a thrilling plot, engaging characters, and a well-crafted setting, all of which make for a fun and enjoyable reading experience. Whether you are a child or an adult, this book will keep you engaged and entertained.
If you are looking for a book that is both funny and suspenseful, Awful Auntie is the perfect choice. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.