Tom Gates: Extra Special Treats (Not)

What do our readers think of Tom Gates: Extra Special Treats (Not)? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children mostly find the book funny and enjoy Tom's doodles, silly adventures and mischievous characters. Some children feel it is not as strong as the earlier books or that the side stories sometimes distract from the main action.

What does the Pageticker team say about Tom Gates: Extra Special Treats (Not)?

We love the lively mix of doodles, jokes and everyday family chaos in Tom Gates's latest adventure. Tom's attempts to become Star Pupil, cope with snowed-in relatives and outwit Marcus make this a funny, accessible choice for readers aged 8–13, especially those who enjoy illustrated diary-style stories. One may wish to note the cheeky behaviour, sibling squabbles and mischievous pranks.

Genres

What is Tom Gates: Extra Special Treats (Not) about?

Tom Gates is aiming to become Star Pupil, but focusing on homework over doodling proves tricky. As his grandparents' fiftieth wedding anniversary approaches, Uncle Kevin plans a special celebration. When snow cancels school, Tom finds himself snowed in with his grumpy sister Delia, cousins, and the annoying Marcus Meldrew. Snow days are meant to be fun, right?

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: Extra Special Treats (Not)

Trying to improve: Tom wants to become Star Pupil, but he finds it hard to concentrate on homework instead of doodling. What helps someone keep working towards a goal when distractions are more fun?

Family celebrations: Uncle Kevin wants to make the grandparents' fiftieth wedding anniversary special. What makes a celebration meaningful, and how might different family members show they care?

Snow-day fun: Tom's snow day does not turn out exactly as planned. What would your ideal snow day look like, and how could you make it enjoyable if things went wrong?

Getting along: Tom has to spend time with Delia, his cousins and Marcus. Why can people who annoy each other still sometimes work or have fun together?

Doodles and storytelling: How do Tom's doodles and handwritten notes change the way the story feels, and what could pictures show that words might not?