Tom Gates Dog Zombies Rule Liz Pinchon

Tom Gates wants his band, DogZombies, to shine, but music ambitions must compete with school, family life and the small problems that fill his days. His comic diary mixes hopeful plans with doodles and mishaps that readers can recognise. Liz Pichon's approachable style gives the story its lively pace, celebrating creativity while finding plenty of humour in the gap between a brilliant idea and how it actually turns out.

Age suitability and learning: Primary (6-8), Older children (9-12). The illustrations and conversational voice offer developing readers a welcoming route into a longer book, while older children can enjoy the humour and character details. Following the diary supports reading stamina, inference and understanding of perspective, with familiar situations prompting conversation about friendships and choices.

Available at QT Toys in Battersea.