CHILDISH
Me and Dot reckon it’s just a word for being a child.
And having a crack at solving a big problem using only a really good friendship and the world’s best dumplings and a thousand kilos of plasticine.
Like we’re doing now.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
I was really looking forward to reading Childish, as I have read lots of Morris Gleitzman books at school. I certainly wasn’t disappointed! The story was full of lots of excitement and suspense. The characters were very relatable and I enjoyed following along on their adventure. This book was a really easy to get into and I think kids will love it. I would recommend Childish by Morris Gleitzman to people aged 11 – 14. Joel, 14, NSW, 5 stars
Childish is a book that is all heart. It is about Arkie and Dot and potholes and plasticine and dumplings. The kindness shown between the characters is heart-warming and once I finished it wanted to go back and start it again. Morris Gleitzman has displayed his magic, humour and creative genius once again Tara, 8+, ACT, 5 stars
I enjoyed that everyone was trying to help each other. I also like that Arkie’s parents just came to him. The book tells me you’re never too young to help keep people safe. Emilia, 6, NSW, 5 stars
I love a book with humour and purpose. A book that teachers about life. “Childish”by Morris Gleitzman is a great read with a message for children and adults alike. It’s a book with a message about bravery and persistence. It follows two kids Dot and Arkie in their attempt to take action for change. It’s a story about friendship, shared dreams and working together for a purpose and change for the better. The book has both humour and heart. It provokes thought in the reader. I found the book both endearing and empowering. The character growth is captured in this brilliant story and it truly shows why children are the best people to fix broken things. A recommended read for ages 8+. Karen, NSW, 5 stars
Readers young and old cannot help being inspired (and entertained) by eleven-year-old Arkie Lumsden as he challenges local government and recalcitrant utility companies to stop being childish, show some responsibility, and coordinate repairs to road flaws endangering the community. He encounters quite a few obstacles in the form of officious employees, but there’s also lots of support and encouragement, quite a few clever ideas, and some lateral thinking. Where does the plasticine come in? To find out, you’ll just have to read it! Enjoyment guaranteed. Marianne, NSW, 5 stars
Very clever! Shows how young teens can really make a difference in this world by being passionate about a community cause. I loved the sparkle in Ariel! Maria, QLD, 5 stars
Childish is the brilliantly fun new middle grade novel from Australian author Morris Gleitzman! It’s a heartwarming tale about why kids are the best problem‑solvers. It’s the perfect book to read to your children. Mine all loved it. Karen, 4-8, QLD, 5 stars
This was a great book, I think it can relate to young and old. It has humour in it and great quotes to inspire. Anita, NSW, 5 stars
After having dental treatment, you can imagine how pleased my son was to find an advanced copy of Morris Gleitzman’s Childish waiting for him at home in the letterbox. He immediately connected with the idea that kids are the best people to fix things, joking that the book would annoy his dad! Judging by the laughs, it’s safe to say the book has captured his imagination. Gleitzman has been writing books since I was a kid! He has a real knack for celebrating what it means to be childish in the best way possible. He’s convinced this is “the very first copy in the world,” and I’m a very appreciative Mum. Tink, TAS, 5 stars
Morris Gleitzman’s “Childish” is a heartwarming, clever tale that follows the adventures of Dot and Arkie, two spirited children full of determination, creativity…and a shared love of dumplings. Their friendship shines as the heart of the story as they work together to overcome potholes, plasticine shortages and puzzling grown-up problems. True to Gleitzman’s signature style, it weaves humour with the powerful moral message that you are never too young to make a difference in the world. Dot and Arkie’s journey is a celebration of problem-solving, perseverance and proof that in working together we can overcome the biggest challenges. It was an absolute joy to return to Gleitzman’s writing and his blend of charm, warmth and social insights is as strong as ever. This story not only entertains, but also empowers young readers to believe in themselves and their ability to have a positive impact. “Childish” is a delightful reminder that change ofter begins with the smallest voices. Fleur, NSW, 4 stars
My grandson really enjoyed it, he read it in 2 days. Gail, 12, WA, 4 stars
Childish has drawn us in from the start! The language used highlights the age of the characters and allows you to see things through their eye’s easily. The contrast of country and city life has some humorous parts to it. We haven’t finished yet but are invested in the fight that is ahead. Charlie and James, 12 and 9, NSW, 4 stars
I didn’t really enjoy Childish. I thought it was a bit silly. It might be better for younger readers. Adriana, 10, NSW, 1 star
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