Tom Gates: Excellent Excuses (And Other Good Stuff) By Liz Pichon - Fiction - Paperback
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Title:
Tom Gates: Excellent Excuses (And Other Good Stuff)
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781407193441
Overview:
Tom Gates: Excellent Excuses (And Other Good Stuff) fuses witty journal-style narration with playful doodles, inviting readers into Tom Gates’s noticeably chaotic and wonderfully funny world. When two weeks stretch ahead with no school, Tom’s days fill with music, mischief, and the imperfect art of getting by. Rather than lessons, he imagines adventures like outwitting his sister Delia, rehearsing with his band DOGZOMBIES (with his mate Derek), and sneaking in extra television time and caramel wafers. The voice is intimate and cheeky, making even everyday school life feel like a quirky escapade. This paperback edition keeps the same light-hearted balance of text and doodled asides that fans love, delivering a quick, comforting read that still feels fresh with each page. It’s the perfect entry point for new Tom Gates fans and a reliable, entertaining pick for steady readers seeking laughter, warmth, and a touch of chaos in equal measure.
What Makes This Book Stand Out:
What sets Excellent Excuses apart is Liz Pichon’s signature blend of storytelling and illustration. The diary-style format invites readers to cruise through Tom’s inner thoughts, while the accompanying drawings and handwritten notes give the page a lively, almost cinematic rhythm. The humor leans on relatable middle-grade situations—home life, school dynamics, friendships, and the eternal mission to stretch a fun moment into a daydream—without ever feeling strained or mean. Tom’s voice is endearingly imperfect, full of clever excuses, goofy schemes, and sincere moments of self-discovery. The book’s structure encourages quick reading sessions, with visual breakpoints that are especially appealing to reluctant readers and visual learners. It’s a light, absorbing ride that balances mischief with heart, making it easy to binge without feeling overwhelmed.
Who This Book Is Perfect For:
Ideal for fans of humorous middle-grade fiction, particularly readers who enjoy stories about school days, family life, and music. Suitable for children aged roughly 7–12, but equally appealing to early readers who love cartoonish illustrations and witty, accessible prose. It’s a superb gift for fans of the Tom Gates series or for parents seeking a funny, friendly chapter-book experience to share with a child. Teachers and librarians will find this title handy for classroom read-alouds or independent reading alike, thanks to its approachable length, engaging voice, and relatable everyday adventures.
Key Highlights:
- Diary-style narration interwoven with doodles and handwritten notes
- Humor rooted in relatable school and family moments
- Musical subplot featuring Tom’s DOGZOMBIES band
- Warm sibling dynamics with Delia that readers cheer for
- Accessible, fast-paced read—great for reluctant readers
- Beautiful, kid-friendly paperback edition with kid-appeal visuals
- Part of a beloved, long-running series by Liz Pichon
About the Author:
Liz Pichon is a British author and illustrator best known for creating the Tom Gates series. Her distinctive approach blends fast-paced storytelling with bold, lively drawings, inviting readers to peek into Tom’s world through both text and pictures. The books are celebrated for their warm humor, accessible language, and the way illustrations enhance the reading experience. Pichon’s work has connected with children across classrooms and homes, making Tom Gates a recognizable and cherished voice in contemporary children’s fiction.
Why You’ll Love This Book:
You’ll love this book if you want a read that feels personal and playful, with visuals that keep the pace snappy and engaging. It’s a clever, comforting escape for kids who enjoy humor, music, and family life—delivered in a voice that speaks directly to the reader. The combination of witty narration and doodles makes it easy to dip in and out, while its genuine, good-natured warmth makes it a joy to own and reread. It also makes a terrific gift for budding readers who appreciate funny, lighthearted adventures with a sprinkle of chaos and creativity.
Please Note: The individual books included in this listing will be dispatched as per the original UK ISBN and UK edition cover image shown in the image.
