Seriously Stinky Trainers

Hilarious novel of boys competing in the Smelliest Sneaker competition.
A competition with a difference is being sponsored by Slam Dunkers, makers of trainers even more famous than Nike! The kid who produces the smelliest, stinkiest, nastiest pair of trainers will win three pairs of prize footwear. The snag is that the smell has to be made by natural means, so, no washing feet for weeks, sleeping with your shoes on, jogging, no socks etc.

Colin has tried everything and thinks he’s produced the vilest pair in the world, he is sure to win the competition and impress Poppy, the girl he has a crush on. However, Colin’s mum won’t let him keep the sneakers in the apartment. Colin has to leave them outside door, much to the chagrin of his neighbours but delight to Bruno, a neighbour’s dog! The trainers, naturally, get pinched. Colin is convinced that the unscrupulous Jack Dunn has nicked them, so a little counter thieving has to take place, but, uh oh, you don’t mess with the class bully, particularly when he has a vile older brother.

Missing trainers, bull dogs who think they are bloodhounds but won’t follow a trail if it involves crossing a road, false accusations and good intentions gone awry all play a part in this story. In the end it’s Poppy who wins the competition, along with Colin’s heart.

This is a very funny book and pitched right at a chlld’s level. Combined with the warmth of family life and the value of good friends, it has a terrific feel-good factor as well as a plot that keeps you guessing until the very end. Perfect for summer reading.