Mega Robot Bros is a long-running comic strip in The Phoenix and the ‘Freddy’ spin-off novels are based on the comic. The format is similar in style to Wimpy Kid and Tom Gates, but with a touch more text, so it’s a nice step forward for children who love the illustrated format and are ready for a slightly more complex story.

You will know a ‘Freddy’ in your class – a boisterous child who hasn’t quite got control of their limbs and personal responsibility yet. A child who always wants to do the right thing, but gets it horribly wrong on a regular basis – and perhaps they’ve got an older sibling who always seems to get it right. Now equip that child with deadly lasers, a jet pack, no sense of danger and some excellent sidekicks and you’d be right in thinking absolute mayhem ensues!

What makes Freddy vs School stand out is that Freddy learns and grows beautifully. He has to work hard to re-establish his friendships after disaster strikes, and to understand other people’s points of view. It’s so deftly done that it doesn’t feel preachy at all. Freddy is a popular choice for children in Years 4, 5 and 6 looking for a hilarious, feel-good read.