Spud is a coming-of-age novel by John van de Ruit set in South Africa in the 1990s. It follows the story of John "Spud" Milton, a thirteen-year-old boy who is starting his first year at an all-boys boarding school called "The Mad House."
At the beginning of the novel, Spud is nervous and anxious about leaving his comfortable life at home and starting a new chapter at a school that is known for its strict rules and traditions. He is also worried about fitting in with his new classmates, many of whom come from wealthy and influential families.
Despite his initial reservations, Spud quickly finds his footing at The Mad House and makes friends with a group of misfits known as the Crazy Eight. Together, they navigate the challenges of adolescence and school life, including academic pressure, bullying, and their own personal struggles.
One of the main themes of the novel is the importance of friendship and the bonds that are formed during adolescence. Through his relationships with the Crazy Eight, Spud learns to be confident in himself and to stand up for what he believes in. He also learns the value of loyalty and forgiveness, as he navigates the ups and downs of his friendships and the challenges they face.
Another significant theme in the novel is the role of education and the pressure to succeed academically. Spud is a talented student, but he finds himself struggling to keep up with the rigorous demands of The Mad House. He eventually learns to prioritize his own well-being and happiness over academic achievement, and he finds a balance between working hard and enjoying his time at school.
Overall, Spud is a heartwarming and relatable coming-of-age story that explores the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. It is a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of finding one's own path in life.
Spud by John Heffernan
Spud has changed over the four books - in a good way. Spud has changed over the four books - in a good way. Catherine's, and immediately falls for her. Spud is the author's own loyal companion on his property in northern New South Wales and was the inspiration for the story. It is absolutely hilarious, as well as tragic, sad, cringe-making, poignant and sometimes downright revolting! I highly recommend reading this series! But the weird looks from fellow commuters were worth it. Approaching the ripe old age of fifteen and still with no signs of the much anticipated ball-drop, Spud is coming to terms with the fact that he may well be a freak of nature.
The Legend of Spud Murphy by Eoin Colfer
Wonderfully written and ever so South African, Spud - The Madness Continues is essential reading. Their relationship eventually reignites permanently after she breaks up with Gavin in Exit, Pursued by a Bear, and she becomes Spud's date to Matric Dance. Seeing the end is a proud moment for readers across the world especially South Africans because through these books and movies, JvdR's essentially Spud's every dream came true. His mom is a free spirit and a teenager's worst nightmare, whether it's shopping for Spud's underwear in the local supermarket, or sneaking food into her handbag at school functions. I've got a real soft spot for this series. On a happier note, Spud rocked! It was heart warming, genuinely hilarious people around me got quite annoyed at my guffawing and incredibly relatable. No matter how horrible the school was we all want to be a part of it.
Summary and reviews of Spud
WaAr Spud Milton has matriculated and vanished into his future. He enjoys flashing himself to the members of the Crazy Eight, but this is often written off as being part of his behaviour. It's 1991, and John "Spud" Milton's journey to manhood is still creeping along at a snail's pace. Picture books, chapter books, YA novels, reality to fantasy; he likes to dabble in them all! The main character is John and he is the narator in the story. Spud: The Madness Continues, is about a boy named John Milton Spud who lives in south africa, and goes to a boarding school. Such a fun book - there were moments when I could not stop laughing, I'd read parts to my partner and we'd both be in stitches.
Summary and reviews of Spud by John van de Ruit
Very funny book about Libraries and Librarians. There are some graphic acts of both human and canine violence in this book, and sadly it isn't suitable for me to read with my son just yet. He approaches his 15th birthday, losing his girlfriend, The Mermaid, and acquiring another, Amanda. The ending was heartwarming and felt right. He has polished his style, and his writing has improved with each book. Despite his optimism and the eventual voice-cracking, ball-dropping accomplishment , Spud soon finds that with both enemies and allies still at school, this year will not be any smoother.
