Gangsta Granny Strikes Again! brings back many of the characters readers loved from the original Gangsta Granny. It is packed with David Walliams' trademark humor, ridiculous situations, and larger-than-life characters. While I enjoyed the book and think it will entertain its target audience, I did not find it quite as strong as the first adventure.
The original Gangsta Granny managed to balance its outrageous comedy with genuine emotional depth. It made readers laugh while also encouraging them to think about family, aging, and the importance of spending time with loved ones. This sequel focuses much more heavily on the absurd and the funny, which makes it entertaining but slightly less memorable.
Ben's Grief Adds Emotional Depth
One aspect of the story that I particularly appreciated was the way Ben's grief is handled. A year has passed since the events of the first book, yet Ben still misses his granny deeply. He continues to visit Cousin Edna at the retirement home, and the story regularly reminds readers that grief does not simply disappear with time.
I think this is an important message for young readers. A year can feel like a very long time in a child's life, but the book shows that it is perfectly normal to continue missing someone you loved. Ben's sadness does not stop him from moving forward, and that is a valuable lesson presented in a simple and accessible way.
Familiar Faces Return
Fans of the first book will be happy to see several familiar characters return. Ben's parents are as frustrating as ever, often proving themselves to be rather terrible parents. However, as in the first book, they usually find some redemption by the end.
It was also fun to see the return of Mr. Parker and Raj, two characters who helped make the original story so funny. And, of course, there is the Queen herself, whose appearances continue to add plenty of humor and charm.
What Can Children Learn from the Story?
After finishing the book, I asked my ten-year-old daughter what she had learned. Her answer surprised me in the best possible way.
She said the story reminded her that we often imagine other people's lives are more exciting, more interesting, or more enjoyable than our own. However, nobody's life is perfect. In other words, it reminds the kids that everyone has problems, worries, and challenges, even if we cannot see them.
I thought this was a thoughtful reflection, especially coming from a ten-year-old reader. It is a message that many children—and adults—could benefit from remembering.
Final Verdict
Gangsta Granny Strikes Again! may not reach the emotional highs of the original Gangsta Granny, but it is still an enjoyable read. It delivers plenty of laughs, embraces its silliness, and brings back many beloved characters.
For older children and pre-teens who enjoy fast-paced adventures, outrageous humor, and familiar faces, this book is likely to be a hit. While I preferred the balance of comedy and emotion found in the first book, I still had a good time reading this sequel and would happily recommend it to young fans of David Walliams.
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