"Mr
Stink" has been sitting on my V+ box from Boxing Day 2012 and yesterday
I finally decided to watch it. What prompted me was BBC was also
showing "The Boy In The Dress" - another of David Walliam's children's
stories adapted for television. I'd watched "Gangsta Granny" last
Christmas and been impressed, only half realising it was Mr Walliam's
creation, and all year I've been hearing lots of good things about his
stories from the mum's coming into the post office. There have been
comparisons with Roald Dahl and I love the fact he's working with the
greatest illustrator Quentin Blake.
What I love and admire about
great writers is that they take something very ordinary, find a way to
bring it to life, tell a story with it and, most importantly, leave us
with a message. They give their writing purpose.
Some
people read a book to escape. Some people read for pleasure. Some, to
better themselves. I read to find the hidden message - and yes, this is
most probably because I'm a dreamer and want peace and love in the
world. So, if I can find a little something to make the world a better
place, I will search it out and use it.
"Gangsta Granny", "Mr
Stink" and "The Boy In The Dress" are fantastic children's stories. I
saw their appeal to children - but also I saw the bigger messages -
reminders not to judge people by what you see on the surface, don't be
scared to be different, make time for people in your life.
I
remember reading everything of Roald Dahl's when I was younger and being
moved, thrilled and delighted with the stories. I haven't read
Walliam's books yet, but the TV adaptations left me with the same
feelings of fulfillment.
Read more about "The Boy In The Dress" here.