So I was looking for a book my 7 year old son to read by himself, that was thoughtful and witty and didn't play to the stereotypes of what a little boy should be like. If you aren't a Horrid Henry fan, then this one may be just the thing. This is the second book ( Set in a school - I would really recommend the first book as well) where his best friend, a girl, has already witnessed that whilst Archie always sets out with good intentions, his everyday plans just get scuppered. My son squealed out loud with laughter, and it was a really enjoyable read together. It's funny, well written, plausible (which is why it works so well). And as a grown up, it's a welcome relief to listen to a imaginative story and have some interesting in-roads to talk about all the adventures and wonder what will happen next. We're all hoping that there will be a 3rd book to follow!