Mr Stink by David Walliams

This is the second book by David Walliams and another good one for children. Set in the same town as The Boy in the Dress, this time the story is about a tramp and a little girl. The tramp is Mr Stink named by the local people, as he stank something awful. His dog Duchess was equally smelly. It appears they lived on the bench by the shops and did not get to even have a wash. People ignored them and even crossed the road to avoid them. 

Then one day, a little girl called Chloe stops and says hello. She is curious about Mr Stink – where did he come from? Why was he living on the bench? Did he ever have a home? And so on….. Chloe was interested in stories and thought Mr Stink would have an interesting tale. Chloe lived with her younger sister and parents. Her sister, Annabelle, was her mother’s favourite and so got most of her attention. Her mother was status conscious and constantly trying to ensure that she, her family and her home did not come across as anything but classy. Her father is her friend but he also keeps on the right side of his wife. She has no real friends at school either.

That one little hello leads to a timid conversation and start of a friendship between Mr Stink and Chloe. The story is full of lessons about being human, tolerant, non-judgemental, thoughtful, and courageous so that you can follow your dreams. The tramp finds a kind friend and a shelter. Cloe finds someone who she can talk to and who understands her, encourages her and advices her. 

The review of this story is hard to write as everything I want to praise or point out will give away the story. I was fascinated by the way it unfolded and where it led. It gives a view of lives and perspectives of ordinary people. When you read of the different characters they seem familiar as I am sure we have met each one sometime in our lives. What will be the impact of this friendship between Mr Stink and Chloe not only on Chloe but also her family, the local community and the wider society? Will they learn to be tolerant and not judge a book by its cover? 

This is a story that everyone should read for it hold lessons for the adults too. Reading the story to your kids will help open up conversations about human values and all the things you wish to teach them about.