The Old People’s Home for Ageing Criminals!
A Rather Mischievous Debut! Now here's something different, a not for profit charity book from the Valleys of South Wales UK! Shady Ways takes readers somewhere we never imagined a children’s book would dare go — an old people’s home where the residents ain't just playing bingo, but reminiscing about bank heists, jewel thefts, and great escapes. Christian Briant’s debut is as cheeky as its title, and it brims with the kind of playful humour that appeals to kids and makes adults smirk behind the page. The book’s greatest strength is its originality. The idea of “retired rogues” struggling with dodgy hips and fading memories, yet still plotting mischief, is a refreshing twist on both crime capers and schoolyard comedy. Young readers will enjoy the slapstick antics, while the sharp one-liners and exaggerated characters give it a whiff of Roald Dahl-style mischief. At just under 60 pages, it’s a short, quick, colourful read, helped by Nina Gardner’s quirky hybrid illustrations, which add warmth and personality to the eccentric cast of ageing crooks. The humour never strays too dark; it’s more “bungling burglars” than hardened villains, and the heart of the story lies in friendship, loyalty, and the idea that even the naughtiest past doesn’t stop you from wanting a laugh in old age. If there’s a flaw, I could only say that it is Briant’s imagination runs wild, and occasionally I wish he lingered longer on the funniest moments. Still, for a debut, it’s full of promise, and kids who like stories with a silly, wicked streak will lap it up. Shady Ways is without doubt a funny, fast-paced tale with a unique hook, proving that growing old doesn’t mean growing dull.Shady Ways is a locally sold not for profit charity paperback book, sold in independent retail outlets around South Wales UK Let's hope there is another installment on the way soon!
Click here to get Shady Ways on Amazon UK
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