So, next in the list of books was Gangsta Granny.
I loved this book more than the last. I knew from the beginning where the book was going (i.e the robbery stories being made up) but that was probably my adult mind reading a child's book. However again I really struggled to put this down, and found myself staying up late just to finish reading it.
The book is about Ben, his Granny and 'absent' parents. Every Friday night he gets shipped to his cabbage loving Granny so his mum and dad can have their date night, usually revolving around Strictly. At first Ben hates spending time with his cabbage smelling Granny, and dreads Friday coming around every week. One week his Granny over hears him complaining about her, and in an attempt to be cooler for her Grandson she constructs a past life that involves her being an International Jewell Thief. Together they plan to rob the Tower of London, whilst Granny is dealing with a hospital stay and the news that she has cancer and does not have very long left. Through their plans to rob the crown jewels, Ben remembers how much he loves his Granny and she is given precious time with him. Along the way, they meet the Queen, Raj the shop keeper, a nosy neighbor who is determined to thwart their plans but never manages to do so. Ben's relationship with his parents gets better as well, and the death of his Granny seals this relationship, as well as introducing him to his Grannys cousin - a new scrabble partner.
While this book is seemingly about something trivial like robberies, jewels, plumbing and dancing there is a deeper message that Walliams manages to include throughout this story. Through his relationship with his parents and Granny, there is a clear message about valuing the people you have in your life, as they might not always be there. And for the 'youth' of today to remember that the the elderly were young once and to enjoy their companies and stories.
Amazon Link
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