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Spud #2
Spud: The Madness Continues
It's 1991, and John "Spud" Milton's journey to manhood is still creeping along at a snail's pace. Nearly fifteen, Spud's starting his second year at boarding school and, to his utter mortification, he's still a spud.
But life at school's about to get a whole lot worse, and even more insanity awaits him this time around, from unrequited love to the most catastrophic school play in history
But life at school's about to get a whole lot worse, and even more insanity awaits him this time around, from unrequited love to the most catastrophic school play in history
Join Spud as he takes another tentative step forward, while all around him the madness continues...
352 pages, Hardcover
First published October 16, 2008
77 people are currently reading
994 people want to read
About the author
John van de Ruit
9 books201 followersJohn Howard van de Ruit is a South African novelist, actor, playwright and producer. He has been a professional actor, playwright and producer since 1998. He was born in Durban and educated at Michaelhouse, where he stayed in Founders House and from where he matriculated in 1993. He then went on to complete a Masters degree in Drama and Performance at the then University of Natal.
He is best known for his collaboration with Ben Voss on the satirical sketch show Green Mamba which has toured extensively throughout Southern Africa since 2002. His first novel was published in 2005 by Penguin, entitled Spud. The book was a runaway success in South Africa. It won the 2006 Bookseller's Choice Award. The sequel Spud- The Madness Continues... was released in mid 2007. Ruit has also sold the film rights to the book, and shooting will begin in 2008.
He is best known for his collaboration with Ben Voss on the satirical sketch show Green Mamba which has toured extensively throughout Southern Africa since 2002. His first novel was published in 2005 by Penguin, entitled Spud. The book was a runaway success in South Africa. It won the 2006 Bookseller's Choice Award. The sequel Spud- The Madness Continues... was released in mid 2007. Ruit has also sold the film rights to the book, and shooting will begin in 2008.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
September 3, 2010
Holy heck. You're going to need to pause frequently so you can ease the diaphragmatic cramps from laughing. The casual violence (we went to breakfast, threw a first-year in the fountain, then went to rugby practice), the borderline alcoholism, the general shiftiness of all characters involved, and the deep and abiding love they have for each other is not only worth reading, it's a study in humanity. Somehow, even the "bonkers" characters are well-rounded, managing to be both tragic and hilarious at the same time. The plot is much steadier than in the first book, and leaves plenty of fodder for a third book (get on with it, Mr. van de Ruit!). If you don't read well, the setting (South Africa during the end of Apartheid) may be a problem, as may the style. The book is epistolary, which would usually not be a problem, but because the seasons are reversed in the Southern hemisphere and Spud goes to a private school, you may find yourself confused by the scheduling of the missives.
Two thumbs up for the good reader, with loads of "guy" humor that a woman will still laugh at.
Enjoy!
Two thumbs up for the good reader, with loads of "guy" humor that a woman will still laugh at.
Enjoy!
September 4, 2013
Ilove the spud books, although I have heard the 1st two are the best. I never went to a boarding school, so a glimpse at how it was in the 80's really gave me a good giggle. I loved all the characters.
It's 1991, and John "Spud" Milton's journey to manhood is still creeping along at a snail's pace. Nearly fifteen, Spud's starting his second year at boarding school and, to his utter mortification, he's still a spud
I loved all his trouble with women and off course his parents and Wombat stole the show!
It's 1991, and John "Spud" Milton's journey to manhood is still creeping along at a snail's pace. Nearly fifteen, Spud's starting his second year at boarding school and, to his utter mortification, he's still a spud
I loved all his trouble with women and off course his parents and Wombat stole the show!
January 31, 2012
In Spud: The Madness Continues, the madness of the Crazy Seven (Seven due to a loss of one boy in Spud; then Eight, when a new boy comes; then Seven, when the new boy leaves; then Eight, when they induct Roger the Cat as an official member; then Six, when two of the boys get expelled; then Seven, when one of the boys gets back) really does continue. Spud is going to turn 15 during this year, is no longer in his first trembling year at the school, and has high hopes for both ball dropping and hair appearing in that same region. 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. Still writing in his diary, the Spud of this year will chronicle his mother's plans to emigrate, The Wombat continuing to lose her mind, and his father's moonshine business; his first breakup, first ball hair, and first trip to England; the Crazy Eight's torture attempts at the Normal Seven (the new batch of first years); his actor career hitting a snag when he's cast as the Dove of Peace in a disastrous school play; and all the usual adventures of midnight swimming, cricket matches, brews, books, and broads, with just a hint more seriousness this year than last.
January 23, 2016
i bloody love the Spud books. :)
i don't really know how to compare this to the first one, whether it's better or not or if it's similar. it definitely carries on the same humour and with the same format as before. once again, Spud is tagging along with the Crazy Eight (now including Roger) and waiting for his balls to drop.
actually, i think this book developed and showed a lot more character and growth than the previous. this one seems to get a little more serious, which is suitable as Spud is growing up. it really helped you love the characters even more- especially the lead-up to Julian's departure- you really feel like you'll miss him. and i do. :(
the story of Spud and his voice finally breaking, how much he wants to grow up and then suddenly being kicked out of his favourite choir is a nice contrast between the generally whacked-out humour. it's also interesting to see him ponder his feelings for the Mermaid, even the one or two serious sentences about how his chest hurts when seeing her again gives us a better picture of who spud is. i loved how he starts hurting like this when he thinks about Mermaid and in order to stop, he makes himself think about cricket. it's such a cute and believable idea for a boy.
i also really liked the Normal Seven. (or the Sad Six.) it's awesome to see new characters going through their painful first year at Michaelhouse, getting picked on and nicknames etc. i really liked the Mad house and the general comraderie of the Crazy Eight, i think that's what really stood out the most.
i'm really glad they mentioned Gecko again a few times in here. i'm really glad spud still thinks about Gecko a lot, and wishes he was there for advice. the crisis/conflict of this story was good- the expelling and the break-up of the Crazy Eight really showed what they meant to each other as friends.
that's why, i think, with its irregular format, constantly tongue-in-cheek humour, the sudden jumps between serious and comedy, Spud: The Madness Continues is another great look at tolerance, friendship and all the extra madness that comes along with it.
Spoiler:
"why did you come back?"
Mad Dog: "for this."
frigging sweet.
i don't really know how to compare this to the first one, whether it's better or not or if it's similar. it definitely carries on the same humour and with the same format as before. once again, Spud is tagging along with the Crazy Eight (now including Roger) and waiting for his balls to drop.
actually, i think this book developed and showed a lot more character and growth than the previous. this one seems to get a little more serious, which is suitable as Spud is growing up. it really helped you love the characters even more- especially the lead-up to Julian's departure- you really feel like you'll miss him. and i do. :(
the story of Spud and his voice finally breaking, how much he wants to grow up and then suddenly being kicked out of his favourite choir is a nice contrast between the generally whacked-out humour. it's also interesting to see him ponder his feelings for the Mermaid, even the one or two serious sentences about how his chest hurts when seeing her again gives us a better picture of who spud is. i loved how he starts hurting like this when he thinks about Mermaid and in order to stop, he makes himself think about cricket. it's such a cute and believable idea for a boy.
i also really liked the Normal Seven. (or the Sad Six.) it's awesome to see new characters going through their painful first year at Michaelhouse, getting picked on and nicknames etc. i really liked the Mad house and the general comraderie of the Crazy Eight, i think that's what really stood out the most.
i'm really glad they mentioned Gecko again a few times in here. i'm really glad spud still thinks about Gecko a lot, and wishes he was there for advice. the crisis/conflict of this story was good- the expelling and the break-up of the Crazy Eight really showed what they meant to each other as friends.
that's why, i think, with its irregular format, constantly tongue-in-cheek humour, the sudden jumps between serious and comedy, Spud: The Madness Continues is another great look at tolerance, friendship and all the extra madness that comes along with it.
Spoiler:
"why did you come back?"
Mad Dog: "for this."
frigging sweet.
May 19, 2012
five stars because it made me laugh out loud, repeatedly, in public. I was reading it while eating at a denny's (my power was out so no cooking for me), and kept laughing so much that a man asked me if the book was really that good. He then inquired if the book "was like television, only in book form?" This is a question for which I have to answer. But I certainly did laugh my face off while reading it.
January 24, 2016
The year is 1991, and Spud Milton's long walk to manhood is still creeping along at an unnervingly slow pace. 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. With a mother hell-bent on emigrating, a father making a killing out of selling homemade moonshine, and a demented grandmother called Wombat, the new year seems to offer little except extreme embarrassment and more mortifying Milton madness. But Spud is returning to a boarding school where he is no longer the youngest or the smallest. His dormitory mates, known as the Crazy Eight, have an unusual new member and his house has a new clutch of first years (the Normal Seven). If Spud thinks his second year will be a breeze, however, he is seriously mistaken. He is soon beset with women trouble, coerced into misguided late night adventures, and finds his dreams of a famous career on the stage in tatters after landing the part of the Dove of Peace in a disastrous house play production of Noah's Ark.Hilarious, bitter-sweet, tragic and real, join Spud as he takes another tentative step forward while all around him the madness continues.
Mad Dog leads the Crazy Eight to the Mad House (tree house) at night. Rambo passes around cigarettes and brandy and all was being "enjoyed" untill they are busted by Pike and his forest police. They blackmail them and tell them to either come down now or they will tell Sparebibs. For a day or so they confine them to house arrest but Anderson soon reports them to Spareribs. Mad Dog and Rambo are expelled and Rain Main, Spud, Fatty, Simon and Boggo are suspended for 2-3 weeks and beaten six strokes. The ones who remain are on final warning.
Mermaid and Spud seem to have just become friends and it doesn't matter how hard Spud thinks about it, he can't seem to get the relationship back to where he wants it. He spends much of his time when he is at home, stalking her and hiding in her garden, trying to peak at her. This is hard for him because she has a new boyfriend. However, Spud invites her to his school dance and all the boys want to meet her and kiss her due to her large breasts.!
Mad Dog leads the Crazy Eight to the Mad House (tree house) at night. Rambo passes around cigarettes and brandy and all was being "enjoyed" untill they are busted by Pike and his forest police. They blackmail them and tell them to either come down now or they will tell Sparebibs. For a day or so they confine them to house arrest but Anderson soon reports them to Spareribs. Mad Dog and Rambo are expelled and Rain Main, Spud, Fatty, Simon and Boggo are suspended for 2-3 weeks and beaten six strokes. The ones who remain are on final warning.
Mermaid and Spud seem to have just become friends and it doesn't matter how hard Spud thinks about it, he can't seem to get the relationship back to where he wants it. He spends much of his time when he is at home, stalking her and hiding in her garden, trying to peak at her. This is hard for him because she has a new boyfriend. However, Spud invites her to his school dance and all the boys want to meet her and kiss her due to her large breasts.!
November 16, 2010
This is the book that every reader in South Africa has been waiting for. Will it be as good as the first one?
John Milton, aka Spud, returns to school. He approaches his 15th birthday, losing his girlfriend, The Mermaid, and acquiring another, Amanda. As if that isn’t enough, his mother decides that the family is emigrating. van de Ruit writes about my favourite character - his almost senile grandmother, The Wombat, with compassion, humour and style.
The Crazy 8 torment the new boys, struggle with rugby and cricket matches and generally create mayhem. Mad Dog forces Spud on the hike from hell, and the Standard 6 oddball, Runt, stalks him. Fatty looms large in the book, as he eats his way to fame in boerewors roll and hot dog contests. Boggo has become his agent - nurturing him to become the most feared Eating Champion in South Africa.
The Guv, drinking his way into oblivion, continues to educate Spud with his favourite books. Cry the Beloved Country is his latest offering to the 14-year-old. Spud is also seriously depressed about the state of the drama department.
And any South African who has been to London will identify with the Miltons as they lurch from pub to Madame Tussauds to pub again.
However, Verne, and the 8th member of the group, Roger the cat, are the stars of this second book. I laughed out loud whilst my heart bled for him. The descriptions of Verne tearing his hair out and his antics on the rugby field are inspirational for any wannabe writers of comedy.
This book is more considered and more layered than the first. It's more grown up - just like Spud is. And yes, it is just as good as the first.
John Milton, aka Spud, returns to school. He approaches his 15th birthday, losing his girlfriend, The Mermaid, and acquiring another, Amanda. As if that isn’t enough, his mother decides that the family is emigrating. van de Ruit writes about my favourite character - his almost senile grandmother, The Wombat, with compassion, humour and style.
The Crazy 8 torment the new boys, struggle with rugby and cricket matches and generally create mayhem. Mad Dog forces Spud on the hike from hell, and the Standard 6 oddball, Runt, stalks him. Fatty looms large in the book, as he eats his way to fame in boerewors roll and hot dog contests. Boggo has become his agent - nurturing him to become the most feared Eating Champion in South Africa.
The Guv, drinking his way into oblivion, continues to educate Spud with his favourite books. Cry the Beloved Country is his latest offering to the 14-year-old. Spud is also seriously depressed about the state of the drama department.
And any South African who has been to London will identify with the Miltons as they lurch from pub to Madame Tussauds to pub again.
However, Verne, and the 8th member of the group, Roger the cat, are the stars of this second book. I laughed out loud whilst my heart bled for him. The descriptions of Verne tearing his hair out and his antics on the rugby field are inspirational for any wannabe writers of comedy.
This book is more considered and more layered than the first. It's more grown up - just like Spud is. And yes, it is just as good as the first.
May 31, 2017
2.5 STARS! Slightly disappointed!
Umm, what the heck! Why does this book not have the original charm the first book had???
The first book was a tale of finding your place in a new world. It was about growing up; about a boy beginning to become a man. It had all the things that you would expect would happen to boys who would be at a private school; bunking, pranks, fights. It even ended with such a twist, that it truly outshone itself, and went from being a funny book, to being a funny book WITH A DAMN GOOD LOOK INTO HOW LIFE LOOKS FROM A YOUNG BOYS POINT OF VIEW!
This was not even close to that book. In fact, this describes a typical year at boarding school, with a few embellishments. They mostly ignored the previous year, even though there were things that happened that would obviously still have an effect. They focused more on the bulling aspect of the plot ( and not in a good way) And, the main event of this book, was a pitiful excuse for a plot device.
The characters are roughly still the same, which is good. The Guv is still a man of great wisdom, and I've started to get fond of Spud's Father (although, I pray they don't overuse him in the next books, just for comic relief.)
I do like the fact that the writing is evolving, as Milton grows up. The first book seemed like it was written by a 14 year old, and this one by a 15 year old. It's the little details that I appreciate. Also, the quotes in here are golden. Van de Ruit could be a Tumblr post with all his meaningful writing.
TL;DR- Hopefully, this will be the worst book in the series. Two more to go, so fingers crossed....
Umm, what the heck! Why does this book not have the original charm the first book had???
The first book was a tale of finding your place in a new world. It was about growing up; about a boy beginning to become a man. It had all the things that you would expect would happen to boys who would be at a private school; bunking, pranks, fights. It even ended with such a twist, that it truly outshone itself, and went from being a funny book, to being a funny book WITH A DAMN GOOD LOOK INTO HOW LIFE LOOKS FROM A YOUNG BOYS POINT OF VIEW!
This was not even close to that book. In fact, this describes a typical year at boarding school, with a few embellishments. They mostly ignored the previous year, even though there were things that happened that would obviously still have an effect. They focused more on the bulling aspect of the plot ( and not in a good way) And, the main event of this book, was a pitiful excuse for a plot device.
The characters are roughly still the same, which is good. The Guv is still a man of great wisdom, and I've started to get fond of Spud's Father (although, I pray they don't overuse him in the next books, just for comic relief.)
I do like the fact that the writing is evolving, as Milton grows up. The first book seemed like it was written by a 14 year old, and this one by a 15 year old. It's the little details that I appreciate. Also, the quotes in here are golden. Van de Ruit could be a Tumblr post with all his meaningful writing.
TL;DR- Hopefully, this will be the worst book in the series. Two more to go, so fingers crossed....
September 13, 2011
The year is 1991, and Spud Milton's long walk to manhood is still creeping along at an unnervingly slow pace. 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. With a mother hell-bent on emigrating, a father making a killing out of selling homemade moonshine, and a demented grandmother called Wombat, the new year seems to offer little except extreme embarrassment and more mortifying Milton madness. But Spud is returning to a boarding school where he is no longer the youngest or the smallest. His dormitory mates, known as the Crazy Eight, have an unusual new member and his house has a new clutch of first years (the Normal Seven). If Spud thinks his second year will be a breeze, however, he is seriously mistaken. He is soon beset with women trouble, coerced into misguided late night adventures, and finds his dreams of a famous career on the stage in tatters after landing the part of the Dove of Peace in a disastrous house play production of Noah's Ark.
The second installment of Spud is as good as the first. Be prepared for many laugh-out-loud-snorting-liquid-through-your-nose moments. Wonderfully written and ever so South African, Spud - The Madness Continues is essential reading.
My favorite characters: Mr and Mrs Milton and their lime green station wagon.
The second installment of Spud is as good as the first. Be prepared for many laugh-out-loud-snorting-liquid-through-your-nose moments. Wonderfully written and ever so South African, Spud - The Madness Continues is essential reading.
My favorite characters: Mr and Mrs Milton and their lime green station wagon.
May 9, 2014
Young Spud Milton returns for his second year of boarding school at Michaelhouse. Thus follows another diary recording details of crazy cubicle mates, disturbing dorm room violence, legendary tree houses, a deranged grandmother and numerous other bizarrenesses. This year there is a whole new dormitory full of first years that are now at the bottom of the pecking order. Unfortunately, it seems that the torment from the new matrics is going to be much tougher than the previous year.
After reading the first instalment of the Spud escapades, I wasn’t planning on taking on the second. However, a friend persistently lent it to me and since I was in the mood for a light read, decided to give it a try. It turned out that I enjoyed this one much more than the first one. The humour is still dry and somewhat exaggerated, but quite sharp at times and gave me a few good laughs.
Being a South African myself, I enjoy the way that the writer uses a lot of local slang, describes the current news of the time and uses the real names of places and people such as sportsmen. Although I’m a few years younger that the author, it gives the story a nostalgic touch, bringing back memories (good and bad) from earlier years.
P.S. My friend who borrowed me this book says the movie version of “The Madness Continues” is not worth watching though.
After reading the first instalment of the Spud escapades, I wasn’t planning on taking on the second. However, a friend persistently lent it to me and since I was in the mood for a light read, decided to give it a try. It turned out that I enjoyed this one much more than the first one. The humour is still dry and somewhat exaggerated, but quite sharp at times and gave me a few good laughs.
Being a South African myself, I enjoy the way that the writer uses a lot of local slang, describes the current news of the time and uses the real names of places and people such as sportsmen. Although I’m a few years younger that the author, it gives the story a nostalgic touch, bringing back memories (good and bad) from earlier years.
P.S. My friend who borrowed me this book says the movie version of “The Madness Continues” is not worth watching though.
May 18, 2010
In this book, Spud, who lives in South Africa, returns to his boarding school for his second year. He is part of a gang called the crazy eight that make alot of pranks and funny jokes. By the second year the crazy eight is the most popular dorme in the school and was the most desired room to change in to. The crazy eight consists of Rambo, Vern, Simon, Boggo, Fatty, Roger, Mad Dog and Spud.
In the second book you learn more about the crazy eight and their antics which i can relate to of the antics of me and my friends which is partly why I enjoyed the book more. I think the author's message is to have fun while your young and to not worry to much about money and the future until you are older. I think another reason I liked it was because the content of the book is stupid humour that i can relate to.
Some people say the sequal isn't as good as the original but I think there is alot more emotion and interseting parts in the second one that make up for the mediocore feedback, it was a hilarious book and I could read it over 20 times, I think it is directed to teens but I reccomend it to all, Can't wait to get my hands on the third book.
In the second book you learn more about the crazy eight and their antics which i can relate to of the antics of me and my friends which is partly why I enjoyed the book more. I think the author's message is to have fun while your young and to not worry to much about money and the future until you are older. I think another reason I liked it was because the content of the book is stupid humour that i can relate to.
Some people say the sequal isn't as good as the original but I think there is alot more emotion and interseting parts in the second one that make up for the mediocore feedback, it was a hilarious book and I could read it over 20 times, I think it is directed to teens but I reccomend it to all, Can't wait to get my hands on the third book.
November 2, 2009
Spud: The Madness Continues, is about a boy named John Milton (Spud) who lives in south africa, and goes to a boarding school. He is part of a gang called the Crazy Eights, and is popular. The main character is John and he is the narator in the story. The setting is in Durban, South Africa. John's main internal conflict is him being called a spud, he wants to have puberty so he wont be called spud anymore. His main external is him being called spud, he sometimes gets bullied on, and he gets emotional.
During this book I made a text-to-self connection. When John wants to get puberty, reminds me of my process of puberty. It made me more of a man, and now that I'm 13, I finally a man. John has gotten the process of puberty and he is awaiting to stop the process of puberty.
I would give this book a 5/5, because it draws you into the book and makes you wanna read more. There is alot of plot in the book, and alot of setting. I would reccomand this book to anyone who wants to read a book about laughter and plot.
During this book I made a text-to-self connection. When John wants to get puberty, reminds me of my process of puberty. It made me more of a man, and now that I'm 13, I finally a man. John has gotten the process of puberty and he is awaiting to stop the process of puberty.
I would give this book a 5/5, because it draws you into the book and makes you wanna read more. There is alot of plot in the book, and alot of setting. I would reccomand this book to anyone who wants to read a book about laughter and plot.
May 25, 2010
Spud: The Madness Continues is just as funny as the first book chronicling Spud’s adventures at boarding school, and this time, his vacation to London with his parents and crazy grandma Wombat. Spud writes with an honest voice, but so many things he experiences seem to be impossible! I suppose it may be harder for me to relate to the physical bullying because I am a girl, but all of Spud’s other concerns are easy to empathize with: mean teachers, crazy family members, breaking up with someone you love (and subsequently being consumed by thoughts of him/her), and finally hitting puberty (which Spud can’t wait for!).
There is real danger in reading this book, however: uncontrollable laughter. I got a few looks on the subway while reading about Vern’s inability to paint anything other than Roger the cat; I couldn’t stop laughing. And I’m not a laugh-out-loud-alone-in-public kind of girl. I’m not sure if there are any more Spud books planned, but I truly hope so. I want Spud’s diaries to continue throughout high school, and beyond!
There is real danger in reading this book, however: uncontrollable laughter. I got a few looks on the subway while reading about Vern’s inability to paint anything other than Roger the cat; I couldn’t stop laughing. And I’m not a laugh-out-loud-alone-in-public kind of girl. I’m not sure if there are any more Spud books planned, but I truly hope so. I want Spud’s diaries to continue throughout high school, and beyond!
July 18, 2013
Read this one even faster than the first. The same slapstick/loony behavior is still here but now balanced with more serious moments. Spud is growing up after all and life only gets a little more hectic as you grow up. Love, friendship, identity all become more important here. The crazy eight are back in full blast here with more chaotic mischief and off-kilter camaraderie. Now that you got to know them in the first book you're now eagerly reading on to see what mindless shenanigans they come up with next(some involving a new group of first years who fail to rival their peers).
My favorite (serious) moment:
Sparerib (after a small bout of tears): "What do you do when you're a small wooden raft surrounded by a... a seething sea of complete madness?"
Spud: "You keep a diary, sir."
There's more detail to that scene and leading up to it but I didn't want to ruin the effect it has. It's a nice bit :)
My favorite (serious) moment:
Sparerib (after a small bout of tears): "What do you do when you're a small wooden raft surrounded by a... a seething sea of complete madness?"
Spud: "You keep a diary, sir."
There's more detail to that scene and leading up to it but I didn't want to ruin the effect it has. It's a nice bit :)
February 11, 2017
The madness really does continue!
This book flows straight from the last, not missing a beat. In this one we really get a feel for Spud struggling to identify himself in this madhouse of judgement and expectations. He really is a young boy trying to fit in but be true to himself. We get a great look at his struggles throughout this changing time of his life.
I love the casual use of language that is appropriate to the time and age group and also how it sometimes falls in gradually as he picks it up in his life or he throws them in for emphasis. The diary writing style is done so effectively and smoothly, there is no struggle with the flow of story.
This book was a bit less of an emotional roller coaster but they can't always be (not every book should be GOT!) It still has it's rises and falls all sprinkled with a healthy dose of madness! Onto the next one and I'm eager to see where life takes our ambitious, yet timid, protagonist!
That's just me though.
This book flows straight from the last, not missing a beat. In this one we really get a feel for Spud struggling to identify himself in this madhouse of judgement and expectations. He really is a young boy trying to fit in but be true to himself. We get a great look at his struggles throughout this changing time of his life.
I love the casual use of language that is appropriate to the time and age group and also how it sometimes falls in gradually as he picks it up in his life or he throws them in for emphasis. The diary writing style is done so effectively and smoothly, there is no struggle with the flow of story.
This book was a bit less of an emotional roller coaster but they can't always be (not every book should be GOT!) It still has it's rises and falls all sprinkled with a healthy dose of madness! Onto the next one and I'm eager to see where life takes our ambitious, yet timid, protagonist!
That's just me though.
October 30, 2011
The Madness Continues is virtually an extension of the first book, the tone largely unchanged, but unlike the first book where the atmosphere looms dark at the end, TMC is a darker sequel, much darker than the first one.
Van De Ruit’s humor had not diminished in this instalment; here, we still see quirks from the Crazy Eight, introduction of the new first years, the new matrics, the end of the old era, and shocking revelations. There were other things to keep you entertained, like the trip to England, the Mad House, and the disastrous outcome for the production of Noah’s Ark.
I would like to keep my review for this as short as possible. There’s not much to tell other than it being the same thing as the first one.
Van De Ruit’s humor had not diminished in this instalment; here, we still see quirks from the Crazy Eight, introduction of the new first years, the new matrics, the end of the old era, and shocking revelations. There were other things to keep you entertained, like the trip to England, the Mad House, and the disastrous outcome for the production of Noah’s Ark.
I would like to keep my review for this as short as possible. There’s not much to tell other than it being the same thing as the first one.
January 14, 2013
Sometimes a good book that revolves around a limited group of characters and plot premise should rest on its laurels, rather than spawn sequels. Such was my reaction to this sequel to the refreshingly entertaining "Spud", which I enjoyed immensely (as I did the movie). I therefore had a high expectation, but disappointingly, I found it to be just a recycling of the same jokes. In fact, I found the whole book structured like a series of unoriginal skits that became a little repetitive and tedious. I wanted to like it more ... and perhaps I'm being a bit harsh. I have the next two books in the series on my "to read" shelf and will certainly still read them. (I can see why there are so many positive reviews here).
April 5, 2016
An entertaining, compulsive, uncomplicated read with many laugh-out moments. The first book was quite scattershot and Van de Ruit succeeds in creating a more cohesive narrative this time around. Spud's miraculous success with the ladies is still a little hard to swallow, but all his other mishaps and bad luck make him a character to sympathise with. And his naivety and need to be a good person endears him to the reader. There's more cameraderie and less nastiness among the Crazy Eight but Gecko's presence is sorely missed and you feel for Spud because he doesn't have a true friend. Vern and Roger steal the show, but the story ends on a bum note, as if Van de Ruit isn't quite sure how to balance the humour with more sobering moments.
April 3, 2023
This is my favourite book cover ever.
There’s just something about John “Spud” Milton diving into the school damn that reflects the book perfectly.
There’s just something about John “Spud” Milton diving into the school damn that reflects the book perfectly.
December 30, 2014
4/5 stars
So it’s Spud’s second year of high school and, I assure you, it’s crazier than the first. I adored the fact that the gang kept the name The Crazy Eight, despite the Gecko situation. If they started calling themselves ‘The Crazy Seven’ I would have lost it. I am not sure if this book was better than the first or not. It was very funny, and had some plot twists that I should have expected, but didn’t. I also loved how Gecko was mentioned time and time again, it was adorable.
But as always Eve was immensely annoying. I feel really bad for Sparerib and honestly, if I were him, I’d get a divorce!
All in all, it is a lovely book and totally worth the read.
So it’s Spud’s second year of high school and, I assure you, it’s crazier than the first. I adored the fact that the gang kept the name The Crazy Eight, despite the Gecko situation. If they started calling themselves ‘The Crazy Seven’ I would have lost it. I am not sure if this book was better than the first or not. It was very funny, and had some plot twists that I should have expected, but didn’t. I also loved how Gecko was mentioned time and time again, it was adorable.
But as always Eve was immensely annoying. I feel really bad for Sparerib and honestly, if I were him, I’d get a divorce!
All in all, it is a lovely book and totally worth the read.
May 4, 2015
By far one of my favourite books... and I don't say that often.
I got this book for my 17th birthday i really did not expect to enjoy it because it's about a teenage boy whose balls haven't dropped, but next thing I know I'm crying!....with laughter... out loud!!! unable to breathe due to the laughing/crying mess that this book has reduced me to. One of the best birthday presents I've gotten, my favourite out of all the spud books.
My book is looking worse for wear on my book shelf because I've read it so many times and will always read it when I need a pick me up, or just when I need some extra craziness in my life.
(John van de Ruit!! you are legendary!!!!)
I got this book for my 17th birthday i really did not expect to enjoy it because it's about a teenage boy whose balls haven't dropped, but next thing I know I'm crying!....with laughter... out loud!!! unable to breathe due to the laughing/crying mess that this book has reduced me to. One of the best birthday presents I've gotten, my favourite out of all the spud books.
My book is looking worse for wear on my book shelf because I've read it so many times and will always read it when I need a pick me up, or just when I need some extra craziness in my life.
(John van de Ruit!! you are legendary!!!!)
December 28, 2008
There is alot of funny jokes, funny pranks, and some not so funny punishments, but when it comes down to it. They're still the seven crazy boys(plus a cat) that will not retire there funny crowns just yet. In this book told from John Milton's (a.k.a Spud's) point of view, we grow to love the crazy eight even more than before and with new adventures there is bound to be fun..and just a "hint" of trouble. Some say it is not as good as the first book but I think all the intersting stuff in the second book make up for it. I hope there is a third book and if there is, I'm buying it.
April 18, 2013
Honestly. this is the most exciting, emotional and greatest book i have read ever. It is a south african based story, about a group of boys at a boarding school in Pretoria. The main character John Milton ( Spud ) is immature for his age and is new at the school. THe story is about John and his family, John making friends and what adventures they get up to when at the school and boarding house. THis book is perfect for the avergae teenage boy who loves laughing and reading. There is humour, romance, thrill and drama all fitted int to this second book of the series. I really enjoyed this book.
August 24, 2010
not quite as good as Spud but i still liked it
i would give it 4.8 stars so i'll round up and give it 5
it was basically a continuation of Spud and if u haven't read it i suggest u read that first (it will tell u all of the characters names and nicknames and also if they have a position ex. housemaster)
if u read Spud a long time ago and don't remember it too well i suggest u re-read it before u read this book
i would give it 4.8 stars so i'll round up and give it 5
it was basically a continuation of Spud and if u haven't read it i suggest u read that first (it will tell u all of the characters names and nicknames and also if they have a position ex. housemaster)
if u read Spud a long time ago and don't remember it too well i suggest u re-read it before u read this book
August 8, 2011
personally i liked the first spud better, but i still liked this one.... and i actually can't remember finishing this book... so my goal is to re-read it. i remember that this book was a lot more personal and dealt with spud and his english teacher's relationship. i recommend reading the first one before reading this one, but you'll be able to pick up if you start here. i am going to order the third one soon.
January 8, 2008
Althuogh it is currently not sold in the U.S. a history teacher went to South Africa during the Christmas break and picked it up for me. Spud:The Madness Continues is just as good, if not better then Spud. It follows Spud as he continues his schooling in south africa. Whether he is visiting London with his family or terrorizing the sad six he always has something to say in his diary
February 14, 2009
I discovered Spud when I was in South Africa two years ago; it was on a list of the ten most popular books in that country. I read it and thought it was hilarious; so did my 12-year-old granddaughter. In this second volume, Spud continues to chronicle his life at an all-boy boarding school. It's just as funny this time around.
March 30, 2009
I hate for this book to end, it has been so entertaining and I have learned some things about growing up from a boys perspective....
End it did and although it was not as strong as the first book I really enjoyed it. Because I liked it so much my 14 year old son now refuses to read it...hahaha... TEENS!
End it did and although it was not as strong as the first book I really enjoyed it. Because I liked it so much my 14 year old son now refuses to read it...hahaha... TEENS!
May 11, 2009
This book was just as good as the first one, which is also very good! Actually I think the first one may have been a tiny tiny bit better but this one was also really good! This book is the sequel to the book "Spud," about a boy in an all-boys boarding school in South Africa during the apartheid. This book is told through Spud's diary, and is a very funny, good read!
July 23, 2009
I had to read this book because I was forced to return the first novel in this series a little shy of the end and wanted to know how a few situations were resolved.
It was a funny book, but not nearly as good as the original. It felt as though the author realized how popular Spud was and tried to recreate it EXACTLY.
It was a funny book, but not nearly as good as the original. It felt as though the author realized how popular Spud was and tried to recreate it EXACTLY.
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