From comedian, actor, rapper and screenwriter Ben Bailey Smith comes the biggest middle grade debut of the year - a blazingly funny, big-hearted story about family, friendship and how far one boy will go to get a laugh.
For thirteen-year-old Carmichael Taylor, life is one big joke - in a good way. He just can't understand why no one else seems to find everything as funny as he does. When Car accidentally delivers a piece of hilarious stand-up at the school talent show, targeting his family and his school, it goes viral. As fame and fortune beckon, it's up to Car to decide what or who he's willing to risk in pursuit of his comedy dream.
A heart-warming and hilarious look at family, friendship and what really matters - perfect for fans of David Baddiel and Frank Cottrell-Boyce.
Carmichael is a brilliantly relatable lead on a very funny and often poignant journey of self-discovery - The Bookseller
Fantastically, gloriously funny. I loved this book; it gave me such joy at every single page - Katherine Rundell, author of The Explorer
This wise and warm book is fat because it’s composed of equal parts plot and comedic riffing, all of which feels essential to its snort-out-loud charm - Observer
Witty and touching, this book is ideal for 10-plus readers who love wordplay and wild, looping tangents - Guardian, Summer reading: the 50 hottest new books everyone should read
A hilarious and original story. Carmichael Taylor is the stuff of legends - he's my new favourite character - Katya Balen, author of The Space We're In
I absolutely LOVED it. A gloriously heartfelt tale wrapped up in first class comedy. I lost count of the number of times I laughed until I cried! - Sibéal Pounder, author of the Witch Wars series
In this charmingly vivid portrayal of family and the ups and downs of school life, Ben has included all the star ingredients for a funny, touching read which will really resonate with teens. With 13 year old Car in class you’re def never getting bored – I thoroughly recommend it! - Jasbinder Bilan, author of Asha and the Spirit Bird
An original concept, spot-on observations of family life and friendships, and snappy dialogue give this book a fresh feel. Best of all, it’s very, very funny! - Lesley Parr, author of The Valley of Lost Secrets
