The hilarious and unmissable new series about Gilbert, a boy whose best friend is an imaginary giant fluffy bunny called Fluff, from the creator who brought us The Odds, Funny Kid and Bored.
For Gilbert Morris, the day begins badly with his undies flapping on the school gate and his name written across them in big black letters!
When your dad’s missing in outer space and the school bully is on your case, there’s only one thing to do – call on your best friend for help.
But what if your best friend is totally furry and completely out of the ordinary?
From million-copy bestseller Matt Stanton, author of FUNNY KID and THE ODDS, comes this side-splitting series about a kid with a wild imagination.
Recommended for ages 8+.
Buy a copy of Bullies Beware here.
Read some great reviews from our Sneak Peek Preview readers here:
Bullies Beware was funny with great pictures. Gilbert is having trouble and Fluff the rabbit helps him make lots of plans. They go on adventures together and work out how to stay out of trouble. They have lots of fun and some of the stories made me laugh out loud like when Carl has an extreme wedgie. I liked reading this book and enjoyed all the pictures on nearly every page. I really liked the how to draw page. Leo, aged 10, VIC, 5 Stars
Fluff #1: Bullies Beware introduces us to Gilbert and his giant comfort bunny named Fluff. Readers will love the excellent illustrations to accompany the story, and will resonate with those awful bullies that just won’t quit. But do Gilbert and Fluff take it that step too far? And how will Carl retaliate now that it seems war has been declared in the caravan park? This is the first in what looks to be a great new series for readers aged 7-11. Sarah, NSW, 5 Stars
Such a funny book, all kids need a magical friend like Fluff!! Deanne, aged 9, VIC, 5 Stars
This was a fun excerpt. Really enjoyed reading the story, it was so funny. The illustrations were great, too. Very keen to see what happens in the rest of the book. Stanley, aged 7, VIC, 5 Stars
I had the pleasure of reading Bullies Beware with my grandson Henry, aged 8. This series will engage young readers with the very funny adventures of Gilbert and his giant bunny, Fluff. In this book we are introduced to Carl – the school bully. Gilbert and Fluff’s plan for revenge is hilarious and the cartoon-like illustrations complement the humour of the narrative. My grandson rated this preview 5/5 stars and he is very excited to find out what happens next! This is a book that supports newly independent readers. The series is sure to be a winner for Matt Stanton! Lyn, NSW, 5 Stars
This is a funny book that is about Gilbert and his toy bunny called Fluff, who comes alive to Gilbert. Fluff helps Gilbert when his bully shows the school and the whole street Gilbert’s underpants and helps plan his revenge. At the end, you can draw Fluff too. Amanda, aged 8, VIC, 5 Stars
Fluff #1: Bullies Beware is the first in a new series by Matt Stanton. My 10-year-old son and I took turns reading chapters of this book aloud at bedtime, and we both loved it. It had us giggling from the minute Gilbert’s underpants were found hanging from the school gate. We will definitely be continuing with this series. Sharah (and my son Atreju), QLD, 5 Stars
It was a really good read and it did make me want to read more. Mel, aged 9, VIC, 5 Stars
It was really funny. I’d love to read the rest! Jack, aged 10, VIC, 5 Stars
The “SNEAK PEEK” sample booklet of Fluff #1: Bullies Beware by Matt Stanton is a delightful introduction to what promises to be an engaging children’s book. This sneak peek provides a taste of the quirky humor and relatable characters that are likely to captivate young readers. Matt Stanton’s writing is lighthearted and filled with fun, making it highly accessible to its target audience. The characters, including the adorable protagonist, Fluff, and the potential bullies, are well-drawn and relatable, which sets the stage for an exciting story about friendship and standing up against bullying. The inclusion of vibrant illustrations adds an extra layer of visual engagement, which is crucial for young readers. It complements the narrative, making it more immersive and appealing. The characters’ expressions and body language in the artwork are expressive, helping children connect with the story’s emotions. This sneak peek effectively teases the upcoming book, leaving the reader eager to discover how Fluff tackles the bullies and navigates the challenges. It’s an encouraging and empowering theme for children to explore. The playful tone and important message about confronting bullying are wrapped up in an entertaining package, which is precisely what a children’s book should achieve. A promising start to what looks like a fun and meaningful series, making it a highly anticipated read for young audiences. Kerrie, NSW, 5 Stars
Both my daughters have enjoyed reading this preview. At times they were laughing at loud and they’ve been talking about the book a lot together, which means that they’ve engaged well with the story. They’re looking forward to reading more! Rosalie, WA, 5 Stars
I’m a big fan of Matt Stanton and Fluff did not disappoint. He creates fun characters that kids can relate to, and I love his illustration style. I especially enjoyed the comic banter between Gilbert, a young boy, and his best friend, a giant fluffy bunny called Fluff. There were lots of laugh-out-loud moments! As Gilbert tries to find a way to deal with the school bully, Fluff has no trouble coming up with ideas to help, which are often inappropriate, but very funny! Thanks to Better Reading for the exclusive chapter sampler of Fluff: Bullies Beware. I can’t wait to read how the story ends when the book is released in November! Deni, WA, 5 Stars
When I first started the book I thought it was just going to just be about a little boy, but as I read more and more, it became interesting and funny! My favourite part was when they got the bully back after the undies incident which made me laugh. I would definitely recommend this to other kids my age and hope they enjoy it as much as I did. Scarlett, aged 10, SA, 5 Stars
I found Fluff a hilarious, fun and exciting book. Gilbert embarks bravely to try to stop Carl humiliating him. Wedgie! Awesome! Dying to know what happened next. Adriana, aged 8, NSW, 5 Stars
What a lot of fun to read. Fabulous expressive illustrations support the text and there is enough naughtiness for kids to be giggling as they read. Gilbert and Fluff are great companions, with Gilbert needing to pull Fluff up with his over-the-top ideas to get back at Carl the bully. In the end, Gilbert gets his revenge on Carl for embarrassing him all the way from the school gate to their home at the caravan park. First reading of Matt Stanton and I will enjoy reading more of his work with the grandchildren. Lyn, QLD, 5 Stars
What a wonderful preview. Having my daughter read the book to me over a few nights kept her smiling at the series of events between fluff, Gilbert and Carl. As my daughter says, never mess with a kid and his imaginary bunny. Definitely will be buying a copy as we have been left in suspense at what happens to Carl and if he seeks revenge. Lorraine, VIC, 5 Stars
A big fan of Matt Stanton’s so was super excited to read his new book. Reading Fluff, I found it overall was awesome! My favorite was Fluff because he is a silly bunny and makes you laugh! I can’t wait to buy the full book when it is out in stores. Fans of Stanton will love this new edition to his collection of books. Joshua, aged 11, VIC, 5 Stars
The second I got this in the mail, I gave it to my 9-year-old son. He took it to his room and all I could hear was laughter and ‘mum you need to come and listen to this!’. This was just a sneak peek of the novel and I will certainly be purchasing the full book. Sheree, NSW, 5 Stars
I’ll start with the worst part of the book to get it over and done with – this sample read of Fluff #1: Bullies Beware by Matt Stanton was only a partial section of the book! Just when I got to the pivotal moment when Gilbert and his trusty sidekick, Fluff, had their bully, Carl right where they wanted him, the sample read ended! I spent each evening reading a chapter of Fluff #1 with my 7 year old son (a Matt Stanton Funny Kid fan), and we will be first in line to purchase the entire book when it comes out in November 2023. Every chapter had some laugh out loud moments both for adults and kids alike. The five characters in the book (Gilbert, Fluff, Carl, Gilbert’s mum, Gilbert’s sister Stacey) are all appealing and evoke a fun emotion from the reader. The amount of wording on each page, as well as the level of text makes this a perfect read for kids ages 7+ to enjoy either independently or with an adult. As I write this review, my son is busily drawing Fluff using the fun step by step guide in the back of the book! Jessica, NSW, 5 Stars
Fluff was really funny, in fact it was so funny it made me nearly laugh my lungs out! The best bit was when Carl was lifted up by a drone connected to his pants. Fluff is the best character because he’s big and strong and a bodyguard. I would tell my friends to read Fluff because it’s so funny when they lose control of the drone. My mum even had to take a video of me because I was laughing so much. I would finally stop laughing then open the book and start all over again! Lincoln, aged 6, VIC, 5 Stars
Grace, 10: I laughed and laughed through this book. It was funny and exciting. I really cared about Gilbert and Fluff reminded me of my own stuffed rabbit. I really want to know what happens next. I can’t wait till I can read the whole book! Mum says: Grace giggled throughout while reading this and then begged for the complete book. I found these sample chapters engaging and funny, with humor that would work for kids at different age levels. A promising start to what looks to be an engaging series. Lorraine, (for Grace, aged 10), ACT, 5 Stars
This book was good because they end up getting back at Carl and his family helps him do it to. I also like how they tell you about everything like his family and the plan on how they were gonna get back at him. I definitely like Fluff, I like how he thinks he super brave and tough when he isn’t and how he try’s to help out with the plan. Annie, aged 9, NSW, 5 Stars
Loved it. Very easy to read. Big wording. Great pictures and the older character names made it different. Very typical Matt Stanton. We love his books. Shannan, aged 8, NSW, 5 Stars
What a delightfully funny yet didactic book for young readers. Matt Stanton has written a book that is visually appealing, with its simple yet appropriate illustrations that add to the humour of the book’s theme of the seriousness and danger of bullying. A book that will surely delight yet teach young readers. Denise, NSW, 5 Stars
Fluff is a very entertaining book and so far the first chapter was a delight. Looking forward to seeing other releases in the series. Oliver, aged 14, QLD, 4 Stars
Fluff was exciting to read and was funny. I liked the characters with Fluff the bunny my favourite. I liked that it used humour that little kids can understand as well. I can’t wait to read the whole book! Megan, aged 10, QLD, 4 Stars
What a fun read! Gilbert Morris lives in a caravan park, with his mum, sister and Fluff the stuffed rabbit his mum gave him after his dad disappeared in outer space fighting aliens who wanted to turn earth into an alien poo processing plant. Having Fluff helped when he got sad, especially when Fluff started talking to him and became his best mate. Luckily Fluff was there when Gilbert had one of the worst days ever – Carl the school bully has pinched Gilbert’s undies and hung them all over the school gate for everyone to see! Together they decide to take revenge on Carl with an epic payback – a very Extreme Wedgie! Fluff is part of a new series for kids from Matt Stanton featuring a giant, very naughty but good hearted rabbit, who comes up with wild ideas and fun adventures. There’s enough illustrations to appeal without being too young, the storyline is bouncy and easy to read for the target group. I thought it was a great little read, though as a sampler advance reader copy we’re just going to have to wait to find out what happens! Juanita, NSW, 4 Stars
A light, easy and animated story about a boy named Gilbert and his best (imaginary) friend, Fluff. Suitable for youngsters but I’d be keen to read the rest of the story about the bully Carl and whether he will be ‘brought down’. Rachael, aged 8, NSW, 4 Stars
Matt Stanton’s latest book, Fluff : Bullies Beware will no doubt be a hit with the kids. The characters are just silly enough for kids to enjoy their hijinks and adventures with a giant talking bunny. Kids will love the nonsense of that character, and love the ingenious ways that Gilbert and Carl try to ‘best’ each other. Can’t wait to see how Carl reacts to Gilbert and Fluff’s payback with the drones. Jann, QLD, 4 Stars
Sad start and not that funny to begin with but it does getting funner and unreal situation. Very easy to read book and good drawings make this a fun quite to read book for early chapter book readers. Olliver, VIC, 4 Stars
This is too cute! Fluff isn’t as smart as my (supposedly!) “imaginary” friend Fifi was (when I was little) but he makes up for it in other ways… I loved the illustrations: the caravan made me nostalgic for one (of many) we had growing up. I really want to read the rest of the book after the tantalising teaser Sneak Peek… Ayesha, NSW, 4 Stars
Fluff #1: Bullies Beware is a funny, engaging story about Gilbert who has a best friend Fluff – an imaginary giant bunny. The font is large and the illustrations are engaging for a young readers. Jacinda, NSW, 4 Stars
My 8-year-old son giggled nonstop through this book! He found it to be very funny and loved how it was a more ridiculous, though still relatable, version of school. It was easily accessible for his age group and he found it easy to read, but enjoyable. As a parent I found the themes to be presented in a humorous but meaningful way, and to be impactful without being over the top. Looking forward to the rest of the book! Oscar, TAS, 4 Stars
I see kids being bullied all the time. I felt sorry for Gilbert as he has to put up with Carl, not just at school but where he lives also. I am glad that he was able to give Carl a dose of his own medicine. Bradley, aged 8, NSW, 4 Stars
My children loved this book, such a great message to it. Jessica, NSW, 4 Stars
Fluff is everything you have come to expect from a Matt Stanton book. It is full of humour and action, with a great message about resilience and overcoming tough times. The characters are well written and witty, adding to the appeal of the book. I loved it and I know you will too. Hayden, aged 11, VIC, 4 Stars
This is a story about Gilbert and his best friend Fluff, an oversized stuffed rabbit with a few impulse control issues. Straight into the story, you know the narrator has a wild imagination and great sense of humour. Fluff is definitely real though, other kids talk and interact with him. There are embarrassing underpants galore and giant wedgies and ill-advised revenge plans. It’s at that beginner chapter book level of reading, with large font, small pieces of text and lots of pictures to keep children engaged. Alicia, QLD, 4 Stars
I have read an exclusive chapter sampler from Fluff: Bullies Beware, which involves a young boy by the name of Gilbert and his imaginary friend, Fluff. I was really looking forward to seeing what this book contained, having gone through bullying myself as a child and then trying to help my own kids defend themselves against bullies at school. Upon opening the book I was delighted to see the size of the font and how the writing was set out on the page. I’m a very visual person, so the illustrations were helpful in setting the story up in your mind. To be honest, I was a bit torn as to the beginning explaining that the dad had disappeared, but having said that, it probably explains the reason for Fluff “appearing”. Without knowing the ending to the story, I must admit it’s a little hard to fully review it, as it ends at a point where you’re not sure which way the story has gone – whether their “revenge” is a good thing or a bad thing. Overall, it seems easy to read and easy to understand and seems to be recommended for the right age range. Kim, QLD, 4 Stars
I like the part when Gilbert and Fluff give Carol an extreme wedgie. It was funny and made me laugh a bit. It was a funny book and I felt curious about what was going to happen next. Brooke, aged 8, VIC, 3 Stars
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