The Bolds

Julian Clary, David Roberts(Illustrator)

Mr and Mrs Bold are just like you and me: they live in a nice house (in Teddington), they have jobs (like writing Christmas cracker jokes) and they love to have a bit of a giggle. One slight difference: they're hyenas. Yes, that's right - they're covered in fur, have tails tucked into their trousers, and they really, really like to laugh.

So far, the Bolds have managed to keep things under wraps, even when their children Bobby and Betty were born. But the nosy man next door smells a rat (or a hyena), and a trip to the local wildlife park, and the brilliantly wacky heist that results, could be the end of Teddington's best-kept secret. Whatever will the neighbours think?

Reviews

"The book's hilarious plot and abundant illustrations make it a top choice for reluctant readers. Wildly original and very funny"
Kirkus, starred review

"Although Clary plays up the humour the underlying warm message is of tolerance towards those who are supposedly different from the norm. Glorious black-and-white illustrations add to the mayhem."
Daily Mail

"Joyful"
Telegraph, Best Holiday Reading for Kids

"Funny and clever with a good dose of yucky humour. Children will appreciate the wry digs at the nonsense of modern living and Roberts' illustrations are an absolute delight."
The Bookseller, Fiona Noble

"Roberts’ manically expressive black and white illustrations capitalize on the unapologetically silly premise... Clary mixes animal fact with imaginative, entertaining fiction."
Publishers Weekly

"We loved the silliness and laughter that runs throughout, and the illustrations are brilliant. Heaps of fun."
Heat

"My two children and I all love The Bolds. An allegory for feeling like an outsider and is written in the most imaginative and sensitive way."
Kate Garraway - Mail on Sunday

"The animals are amongst us! This lovely book will have kids rolling on the floor with mirth while their parents roll their eyes in recognition of human folly."
Fay Weldon

"Underscoring the slapstick appeal is a message about understanding others’ differences... Fans of Roald Dahl will find much to appreciate here."
School Library Journal

"This entertaining tale will make readers chortle. A good choice for reluctant readers and fans of Captain Underpants."
Booklist