Gangsta Granny: A Review Of David Walliams' Hilarious Novel

Natalie Brooks

5 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

4.2

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The Hilarious Plot and Unexpected Twists

Gangsta Granny follows the story of young Ben, who is initially bored stiff by his seemingly ordinary Granny. However, Ben's world is turned upside down when he discovers his Granny's incredible secret: she's a daring jewel thief! The novel’s plot unfolds with a series of unexpected twists and turns, keeping young readers (and their parents!) on the edge of their seats. The humor is cleverly woven into the narrative, making even the most tense moments burst with laughter.

• Ben's initial boredom and dislike for his Granny: The story begins with a relatable portrayal of a child's frustration with a seemingly dull relative, instantly engaging young readers.
• The reveal of Granny's secret life as a jewel thief: This shocking revelation throws the entire narrative into a thrilling and unexpected direction.
• The thrilling heist plan and its comical execution: The plan itself is wildly imaginative and absurdly funny, filled with slapstick moments and near misses. This is classic David Walliams, delivering a hilarious adventure.
• The unexpected obstacles and near misses: The numerous obstacles and close calls throughout the heist keep the tension high, ensuring the reader remains hooked until the very end. This rollercoaster of suspense and humor is a hallmark of successful children's literature and what makes David Walliams books so popular. This funny book is perfect for kids who enjoy a good laugh and a thrilling adventure.

Memorable Characters and Their Development

The success of Gangsta Granny lies not only in its plot but also in its memorable cast of characters. The character development is superb, showcasing a transformation in both Ben and his Granny.

• Granny's transformation from a seemingly frail old woman to a daring criminal mastermind: This unexpected twist is both hilarious and inspiring, showing Granny's hidden strength and resourcefulness.
• Ben's growth from a reluctant participant to a vital part of the heist: Ben's journey showcases the potential for personal growth even in extraordinary circumstances. This relatable character arc resonates with young readers.
• The supporting characters and their contributions to the humor and plot: The other characters, each quirky and unique, add depth and humor to the narrative, enriching the reading experience. David Walliams characters are consistently engaging, showcasing the author's talent for creating relatable and memorable figures. These engaging characters are central to why this kid's book is so successful.

Walliams' Signature Writing Style and Humor

David Walliams' writing style is instantly recognizable: a blend of witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and cleverly exaggerated situations. The author uses wordplay and funny descriptions to keep the narrative consistently entertaining.

• Use of slapstick humor and witty dialogue: The book is filled with slapstick moments and witty dialogue that will have children (and adults) chuckling throughout.
• Exaggerated characters and situations: Walliams’ talent lies in his ability to create larger-than-life characters and situations that are both hilarious and believable within the context of the story.
• The role of illustrations in enhancing the reading experience: The illustrations perfectly complement the text, adding another layer of humor and visual appeal, making this an ideal illustrated book for young readers. This combination of text and illustrations is a characteristic of successful David Walliams books.

Themes and Lessons within the Hilarious Narrative

While primarily a humorous adventure, Gangsta Granny also explores several heartwarming themes and imparts valuable lessons to its young readers.

• The importance of family bonds, even amidst unconventional circumstances: Despite Granny's unusual activities, the story highlights the strong bond between Ben and his Granny, proving that family love can thrive even in the most unexpected situations. This family theme is subtly interwoven within the hilarious plot, adding depth to the narrative.
• The value of embracing unexpected adventures: The story encourages children to embrace the unexpected and to find adventure even in the most ordinary places. This adventure story is a great way to inspire curiosity and imagination in young minds.
• The rewarding nature of facing fears and overcoming challenges: Ben's participation in the heist helps him to overcome his fears and to discover his own inner strength. The moral lessons subtly integrated into the plot are both educational and entertaining. This makes it a great children's book with lessons that are both memorable and engaging.

Conclusion

Gangsta Granny is a truly delightful read, offering a perfectly balanced blend of hilarious adventures, memorable characters, and heartwarming themes. David Walliams’ signature humor shines throughout, making this a funny book that both children and adults will enjoy. The book's engaging plot and relatable characters are sure to capture the imagination of young readers while imparting valuable lessons about family, courage, and the importance of embracing the unexpected. Pick up a copy of Gangsta Granny today and experience the hilarious adventure for yourself! Discover why David Walliams' Gangsta Granny is a must-read for young and old. Share your thoughts on Gangsta Granny in the comments below!