The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh - Helen Rutter

 

Billy Plimpton is 11 years old and dreams of entertaining people as a stand-up comedian.  There's just one stumbling block: Billy has a stammer.

At home, his family finds him funny and are patient when he can't get his words out; however, at school, things are different, so when it's time to go to secondary school, Billy chooses somewhere different to all but one of his classmates.  He is determined not to let his stammer define him, so much so that he doesn't say a word to anyone at all at the start of term.  So, how can Billy overcome what he sees as his biggest 'problem' to achieve his dreams, and what will happen when there's a talent show at school?

This is a funny book from the very start, with a joke at the beginning of every chapter which sets the tone.  Billy is a funny boy who has a great sense of humour and he knows how to deliver a joke well - he just feels that his stammer is holding him back.  Behind the jokey exterior is a boy who is  troubled and struggling, spending much of his time in a desperate attempt to 'cure' his stammer - sometimes going to extreme lengths.  He's a character of many layers: funny and breezy on the outside; troubled and anxious on the inside; frustrated at times; unable to express himself when he needs to, especially when being picked-on by the school bully - he is a character that children will be able to relate to.

Billy's form teacher Mr Osho plays an important role in Billy's life at school, and by simply giving him a book to write down anything Billy wants him to know, their relationship begins to develop.  He coxes and encourages Billy, helps him to develop his friendship and is a teacher that every child needs.

This is a touching story about growing up and about learning to love and accept yourself.  It will make you laugh and cry, almost in equal measure, and will inspire children to dream big and to follow those dreams.  

The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh is a captivating book about finding your voice, realising you are not alone, and learning that sometimes, it's important to stand out.

Due for release 4th February 2021.