A review by ftlobooks
Brain Freeze by Tom Fletcher

5.0

Full “mini” review in my blog here: https://ashleighbekkah.wordpress.com/2018/09/28/mini-book-review-and-a-huge-thank-you-brain-freeze-tom-fletcher/

Overall opinion of the book:

This was an utterly fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed reading, even as an adult. Each time I read a book written by Tom, I’m a little more blown away by how talented of a writer he is. This is almost definitely one of the best children’s books I’ve read in a long time. I know that if I read this as a child it would have been one of my favourite books.

What I loved the most about Brain Freeze was Izzy’s close relationship with her grandfather. It reminded me so much of what my relationship with my Bampi was like as a child. The grandfather was kind, loving and funny, exactly like my Bampi was. If I could have described to you what my relationship with hi, was like, it would be similar to Izzy’s. The stories her grandfather told reminded me of my Bampi’s stories. Bampi was deployed to Egypt during World War II and we always used to talk about the pyramids just like Izzy and her grandfather. I think this is why this book resonated with me and why I loved it so much. My Bampi passed away when I was 9, but he made such a lasting impact on my life during the years I spent with him.

The story is a short novella, but it’s so lovely and heartwarming. To me, there’s definitely something special about a child’s relationship with their grand and great grand parents, which Tom captures perfectly through Brain Freeze. It’s a funny read and definitely captures the readers imagination throughout.

The illustrations that accompany the story are brilliant, hilarious and compliment the overall plot very well. The spelling, punctuation and grammar is flawless and it’s a book that would be easily accessible to younger readers. Although, many children would probably enjoy this book being read to them too.

Before I finish my review, I will warn you of something though. The story does talk about ice cream… A LOT. So be prepared to crave it!

Final thoughts:

I would definitely recommend this book to children and adults alike. Although this is a World Book Day book aimed at children, I’m certain adults and parents will love this heartwarming read too. After reading Brain Freeze, I cannot wait to read The Christmasaurus!

It’s a funny, warm and lighthearted read that resonated with me on a personal level. Although it’s sad that it’s now the end of an era for me, it reminded me of all the amazing memories I’ve had with my Nanny and Bampi. Although they’re no longer with us, I have so many fantastic memories with them that I’ll forever cherish.