The Boy in the Dress
by David Walliams, illustrated by Quentin Blake
Interest age: 9 to 10
Reading age: 9+
Published by HarperCollins Childrens Books, 2009
About this book
Dennis loves football but he also loves fashion and Vogue magazine. His lorry-driving father and laddish older brother don’t like or understand his fascination with dresses and since his mother left home, he has no-one to turn to. Then Dennis meets Lisa, an older, cooler girl who wants to be a designer and with her help he realises that it’s ok to be different.
Despite its sensitive subject matter, this book is filled with humour - the 1980s references to Neighbours and drinking Um-bongo will resonate with adults, while Dennis’ exploits with a host of quirky characters will amuse contemporary children. Fantastic illustrations from Quentin Blake complement the text perfectly.
About the author
What to read next
We know that children can get hooked on a favourite book series or author and struggle to find something they love as much, but we’re here to help.
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David Walliams has become a hugely popular author for children, but if you know young readers who have torn through all his stories and need some more inspiration, we have plenty of suggestions!
More books like this
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Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
9 to 12 years
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Matilda
illustrated by Quentin Blake
6 to 12 years
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Ivan the Terrible
by Anne Fine, illustrated by Philippe Dupasquier
6 to 12 years
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The Killer Cat Strikes Back
by Anne Fine, illustrated by Steve Cox
6 to 9 years
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Billionaire Boy
by David Walliams, illustrated by Tony Ross
9 to 12 years
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Mr Stink
by David Walliams, illustrated by Quentin Blake
9 to 12 years
Lists of recommended reads
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10 winning books about sport
Finding books related to children's interests can be a fantastic way to get them reading. Here, author and Olympian Eloise Smith shares her favourite sporty stories for children.