Top of the Class (nearly)

Name: Top of the Class (nearly)
ISBN: 9781407148809

by Liz Pichon

Tom Gates is back with more laugh-out-loud antics as he tries, and mostly fails, to impress his teachers and avoid trouble. From hilarious doodles to sibling squabbles, this book is packed with relata

About This Book

This ninth installment in the award-winning Tom Gates series follows Tom as he navigates the ups and downs of school life, determined to make it to the 'top of the class' and get onto the school council. Despite his best intentions, Tom's vivid imagination, love for doodling, and knack for getting into scrapes often lead to comical mishaps. The book explores themes of resilience, self-confidence, and family dynamics through a highly humorous lens, making it perfect for early to late elementary readers. Parents will appreciate the lighthearted approach to common childhood frustrations and the emphasis on trying your best, even when things don't go to plan.

From the winner of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, the Best Book for Younger Readers - Red House Children's Book Award, the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 5 - 12 year-olds and the Blue Peter Best Story Book Award 2013, comes the ninth amazing instalment of this brilliant series! TIPS FOR BEING TOP OF THE CLASS (Sadly...I did NONE of these things.) 1. Stay awake in lessons (it helps.) 2. Don't draw HILARIOUS pictures of your teachers. 3. AVOID the class bully to stay out of trouble. 4. Don't let Mum and Dad write ANYTHING in your school planner. 5. Don't let your grumpy sister Delia BOSS you around. (Technically not a school issue - but still important.) I'm TRYING to get voted onto the school council as well - but thanks to the ABOVE list it's not exactly going to plan.

Concepts

Joy & Gratitude Anger & Frustration Fear & Bravery Self-Confidence & Identity Resilience & Perseverance Love & Family Friendship & Loyalty Creativity & Imagination Justice & Fairness Sibling Rivalry Peer Pressure Making Friends Growing Up School Life Family & Siblings

Discussion Prompts

Tom tries really hard to be good at school, but sometimes things don't go as planned. What's something you've tried really hard at, even if it was difficult?

Tom has a grumpy sister, Delia. Do you have siblings, and what are some fun or challenging things about having them?

Tom tries to avoid the class bully. What are some ways you can deal with someone who is being mean or bossy?

If you were running for school council, what would be one promise you would make to your classmates?

External Reviews