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Tom Gates: Pesky Pets and Parties

By Liz Pichon

Book 24 of 24 in the Tom Gates series

DogZombies promise a new song, but Tom must somehow save their not-so-boring big performance.

hilarious engaging creative relatable

Pageticker community rating

Average score: 4.65

From 31 readers

What do our readers think of Tom Gates: Pesky Pets and Parties? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children find the story very funny, especially the silly accidents, pets, parties and Tom’s relatable school-life problems. They also like the short chapters and doodles, which make the book feel easy and enjoyable to read.

What does the Pageticker team say about Tom Gates: Pesky Pets and Parties?

Liz Pichon delivers another gloriously muddled Tom Gates adventure, packed with doodles, school-band chaos and the sort of embarrassing mix-ups that feel hilarious rather than disastrous. Book 24 and the final in the series.

Genres

Humour Friendship/Family Realistic Fiction

What is Tom Gates: Pesky Pets and Parties about?

Tom Gates and his band, DogZombies, are in a pickle! Norman has announced they have a new song and look for the big end-of-term party, but they don't. With Oakfield Manor School as competition, can they pull it off? Plus, Tom juggles attending Leroy's party, a dolphin costume mishap, and his parents' fun run antics. Packed with doodles and laughs, this diary-style adventure is a must-read!

About the author

Liz Pichon is a brilliant British author and illustrator, best known for her funny and creative Tom Gates series. Her books are full of doodles, jokes, and school adventures that lots of children enjoy. Liz loves drawing and coming up with new ideas to make reading fun for everyone!

Discussion ideas around Tom Gates: Pesky Pets and Parties

Band Trouble: Why does Norman’s announcement create such a difficult situation for DogZombies, and what would you do if your group promised something before it was ready?

Embarrassing Moments: Tom faces several awkward mix-ups. Which moment would be hardest to handle, and what helps people recover after making a mistake?

Friends and Promises: How do Tom and his friends support one another, and when is it important to admit that you need help?

Family Fun: What do the fun run and party mishaps show about Tom’s family, and how can families turn embarrassing moments into funny memories?

Pages

240 pages

Reading age

Junior (8-13)

This edition

2025

First published

2011

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