South African Import Entertains

Set in South Africa in 1990 , this young adult novel is told via the diary of 13 year old John Milton. Quickly nicknamed "Spud" upon arrival at his boarding school, Milton becomes friends with the rest of the boys in his house. Van de Ruit's novel follows the adventures of Spud and the rest of the Crazy Eight as they muddle their way through their first year at school. Young Spud humorously relates his life at school and at home and introduces readers to a quirky cast of characters (all seemingly with their own nicknames) that
entertain with their antics. Life is never dull as Spud is always up to something. Join him and the Crazy Eight as they take secret late night swims, investigate a school haunting, experience first kisses and blooming young love and deal with embarrassing family members.

Spud,by John Van de ruit, was a bestseller in South Africa and should translate well here in the U.S.

--KEL