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Spud #5
Spud: The Reunion
It is 2003 – ten years since Spud Milton’s class of 93 matriculated and the boys went their separate ways. Despite their seemingly unbreakable bond, the Crazy Eight – Rambo, Mad Dog, Vern, Fatty, Garth Garlic, Boggo, Simon and Spud – have not kept in touch. Or at least, not as far as Spud knows. When he receives an invitation from the school to attend the ten-year reunion weekend, Spud is determined to avoid the event at all costs, but he hasn’t reckoned with the bombardment of intrusive messages and threatening phone calls from his former dorm mates. No one is going to bend his arm, not this time; he is immune to peer pressure and wise to Rambo’s devious manipulation techniques. Spud has moved on. And, anyway, he has enough to worry about on the home front.
At twenty-eight Spud is stuck in a one-third life crisis. Reflecting on a decade of spectacular non-achievement, at a point where he’s coming to realise that his glittering stage career might have stalled before it’s even begun, casts him into deep gloom. For the former scholarship kid, the prospect of once again having to measure up to his blue-blooded school friends – and be found wanting – has him riddled with anxiety. Not only that. Spud still doesn’t have a serious girlfriend, which has seen him resort to a questionable international bath-sexting relationship with an old flame. Not to mention that circumstances have forced him to move back in with his parents and his senile grandmother, Wombat, whose walks never end where they began.
After a wildly unsuccessful fishing trip with his father, as well as a return to his old way of figuring things out – writing in his diary – to his own surprise, Spud finds his reunion resistance crumbling. Curiosity and courage win the day. It’s just a weekend, after all … what could possibly go wrong?
At twenty-eight Spud is stuck in a one-third life crisis. Reflecting on a decade of spectacular non-achievement, at a point where he’s coming to realise that his glittering stage career might have stalled before it’s even begun, casts him into deep gloom. For the former scholarship kid, the prospect of once again having to measure up to his blue-blooded school friends – and be found wanting – has him riddled with anxiety. Not only that. Spud still doesn’t have a serious girlfriend, which has seen him resort to a questionable international bath-sexting relationship with an old flame. Not to mention that circumstances have forced him to move back in with his parents and his senile grandmother, Wombat, whose walks never end where they began.
After a wildly unsuccessful fishing trip with his father, as well as a return to his old way of figuring things out – writing in his diary – to his own surprise, Spud finds his reunion resistance crumbling. Curiosity and courage win the day. It’s just a weekend, after all … what could possibly go wrong?
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2024
About the author
John van de Ruit
11 books206 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 58 reviews
January 4, 2025
I was so excited to see this on the shelves!
As a kid, I loved Spud. I read and reread Spud obsessively, to the point where it may actually have been a bit concerning. So seeing a new Spud, I was incredibly excited.
But, I'm sorry to say I was rather let down.
At the end of Spud's journey through school, I remember feeling a bit sad, a bit nostalgic, but happy. There had been so much growth, it had been so fun,there were so many memorable things that it felt like it ended at a good spot. A natural conclusion.
The reunion feels like it undoes so much of the natural conclusion that the books had, that it left me genuinely wondering what the point was of writing it. The Crazy 8 are back together after ten years and... and... nothing. Nothing happens.
The pace was also just...off? Where in the normal Spud books you go through the full school year with the characters, this took place over the span of weeks. This left the pace feeling a bit odd. So much, and yet so little happening over such an odd period of time.
I always feel a little bit sad and a little bit cheated when books that leave characters at the end of their childhood make a comeback, and the now adult character has somehow failed to reach their potential. Where, with the original ending, you can give Spud and the rest of the Crazy 8 a brilliant and bright future, you're now left with the assurance that they've all turned out to be losers, at least in one way or another. Sure, the second is more realistic, but then do we always need to stick to realism?
I guess, to summarise, Spud: The Reunion felt like a lot of missed potential. It could have been great, nostalgic, fun and momentous but it ends up being... there, I guess?
As a kid, I loved Spud. I read and reread Spud obsessively, to the point where it may actually have been a bit concerning. So seeing a new Spud, I was incredibly excited.
But, I'm sorry to say I was rather let down.
At the end of Spud's journey through school, I remember feeling a bit sad, a bit nostalgic, but happy. There had been so much growth, it had been so fun,there were so many memorable things that it felt like it ended at a good spot. A natural conclusion.
The reunion feels like it undoes so much of the natural conclusion that the books had, that it left me genuinely wondering what the point was of writing it. The Crazy 8 are back together after ten years and... and... nothing. Nothing happens.
The pace was also just...off? Where in the normal Spud books you go through the full school year with the characters, this took place over the span of weeks. This left the pace feeling a bit odd. So much, and yet so little happening over such an odd period of time.
I always feel a little bit sad and a little bit cheated when books that leave characters at the end of their childhood make a comeback, and the now adult character has somehow failed to reach their potential. Where, with the original ending, you can give Spud and the rest of the Crazy 8 a brilliant and bright future, you're now left with the assurance that they've all turned out to be losers, at least in one way or another. Sure, the second is more realistic, but then do we always need to stick to realism?
I guess, to summarise, Spud: The Reunion felt like a lot of missed potential. It could have been great, nostalgic, fun and momentous but it ends up being... there, I guess?
November 23, 2024
3.5 stars
The Spud series has been a instant favorite of mine since it first came out in 2005 and no one was surprised that it was made into a movie. I think most South Africans would appreciate the nostalgia that comes with reading this latest one focusing on the 10 year reunion of the Crazy Eight.
Some of my favorite characters are still Spud’s parents, especially his dad. He just encompasses the craziness that only a South African would recognize in themselves, or at least someone they know.
This was the perfect antidote for someone feeling a bit homesick after 6 months abroad.
Tania thank you for my lovely gift!
The Spud series has been a instant favorite of mine since it first came out in 2005 and no one was surprised that it was made into a movie. I think most South Africans would appreciate the nostalgia that comes with reading this latest one focusing on the 10 year reunion of the Crazy Eight.
Some of my favorite characters are still Spud’s parents, especially his dad. He just encompasses the craziness that only a South African would recognize in themselves, or at least someone they know.
This was the perfect antidote for someone feeling a bit homesick after 6 months abroad.
Tania thank you for my lovely gift!
December 2, 2024
As always, incredibly funny like these books always are.
And yet there’s a new tone - Spud is ten years older, wiser; he’s looking back with a few more years of experience on him. The writing is different, but in a good way. The way you would feel having to look back on a very different time in your life.
I treasured spending more time with the characters I had missed. I have a lot of questions that went unanswered, but that was to be expected, considering the nature of the books that have come before this one. I’m always left desperately wanting to know more about Spud’s story. Where could they all be now, 21 years later? I can only imagine.
Everything felt so right. It’s exactly what you would have envisioned for these characters had you have had to think of them ten years on. It was so realistic - only in the way John van der Ruit is able to write. He’s able to invoke those memories, of your meals in the dining hall, late night chats in the dorm, agonising hours in prep and lovely lazy afternoons. He’s always perfectly encompassed my boarding school experience - although, mine is nothing like Spud’s - but he’s able to capture that wonderfully and painfully nostalgic feeling perfectly.
And yet there’s a new tone - Spud is ten years older, wiser; he’s looking back with a few more years of experience on him. The writing is different, but in a good way. The way you would feel having to look back on a very different time in your life.
I treasured spending more time with the characters I had missed. I have a lot of questions that went unanswered, but that was to be expected, considering the nature of the books that have come before this one. I’m always left desperately wanting to know more about Spud’s story. Where could they all be now, 21 years later? I can only imagine.
Everything felt so right. It’s exactly what you would have envisioned for these characters had you have had to think of them ten years on. It was so realistic - only in the way John van der Ruit is able to write. He’s able to invoke those memories, of your meals in the dining hall, late night chats in the dorm, agonising hours in prep and lovely lazy afternoons. He’s always perfectly encompassed my boarding school experience - although, mine is nothing like Spud’s - but he’s able to capture that wonderfully and painfully nostalgic feeling perfectly.
January 6, 2026
Sad ending to an otherwise really enjoyable series. The whole book seemed like a psychoanalysis of Rambo and missed the pacing and humor of the previous books.
February 28, 2026
I read the first four Spuds just as I was moving through high school. I connected deeply with them then, as they reinforced my own experiences at an elite ‘traditional’ South African all-boys school.
Having read this one, set at Spud’s own 10 year reunion, and fast approaching that point in my own life - I have once again found myself connecting with Spud’s context. Spud, in the midst of his own quarter-life crisis is forced to face the past and the realities of his own life and becomes an unlikely figurehead within the now late 20s ‘Crazy Eight’ group.
All in all - I enjoyed the book, maybe more so because it continues to mirror my own life and experience.
Having read this one, set at Spud’s own 10 year reunion, and fast approaching that point in my own life - I have once again found myself connecting with Spud’s context. Spud, in the midst of his own quarter-life crisis is forced to face the past and the realities of his own life and becomes an unlikely figurehead within the now late 20s ‘Crazy Eight’ group.
All in all - I enjoyed the book, maybe more so because it continues to mirror my own life and experience.
December 22, 2024
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for a local author. I picked this book up at OR Tambo on my way to the Midlands for Christmas holidays. I wasn’t aware it had been published. Immediately, the novel delivers on the nostalgia it promises. Spud is an observant, insightful, and endearing narrator. Additionally, the cretinism of Vern and the cringy South Africanism of Spud's dad elicit plenty of laughs. (Really, this was some of Vern's best cretin attacks.) However, there are a few aspects that require some suspension of reality: Has Spud truly not kept up with his journaling compulsion since matric? How is Fatty an Associate Professor at 28? Have the Crazy 8 really not attended an Old Boys’ Day ever, not even the year after matriculating? How is Spud so bad at recognising people after only 10 years? The reunion also only really kicks off halfway through the book, so there is understandably a great deal of scene-setting and catching up to do. This aside, the novel is a light-hearted and entertaining holiday read which I didn't want to put down.
January 16, 2025
6/10
The more descriptive writing style, while a jarring contrast to that of the earlier books, was overall very welcome. It made me wish certain diary entries in the previous books were written as such. While I enjoyed reading the book, seeing a more grown-up Spud's perspective and revisiting the Crazy 8 as adults (hence the above-average rating), I thought it ended fairly abruptly and when I finished reading it I felt as if the book didn't really add to the series. Overall, an unecessary book, but still enjoyable diving back into this world created by Van De Ruit.
The more descriptive writing style, while a jarring contrast to that of the earlier books, was overall very welcome. It made me wish certain diary entries in the previous books were written as such. While I enjoyed reading the book, seeing a more grown-up Spud's perspective and revisiting the Crazy 8 as adults (hence the above-average rating), I thought it ended fairly abruptly and when I finished reading it I felt as if the book didn't really add to the series. Overall, an unecessary book, but still enjoyable diving back into this world created by Van De Ruit.
March 24, 2025
3 ½ stars
It has moments where it shines with some of the crazy 8 characters but also falls completely flat with some.
The whole rambo thing is taken too far and is a nothingburger mystery.
Spud reflecting on the school and elitism 10 years on is what the book should have focused on instead of dark star
It has moments where it shines with some of the crazy 8 characters but also falls completely flat with some.
The whole rambo thing is taken too far and is a nothingburger mystery.
Spud reflecting on the school and elitism 10 years on is what the book should have focused on instead of dark star
January 19, 2025
Severely disappointed. It almost seemed like he was forced to write this book and did so without much enthusiasm
January 25, 2025
DNF’d at about 50%. Haven’t been so bored with a book in a while.
Read
December 18, 2024#SpudTheReunion – John van de Ruit
#PanMacmillanSouthAfrica
Love them or hate them, reunions are evocative by their very nature. At the positive end some will remember the good times, as opposed to those determined to rather bury the memories in the past. Although initially determined not to attend after receiving an invitation to a school reunion, Spud (John) Milton, was sufficiently distressed by the avalanche of conflicting emotions that followed, that he reverted to his teenage coping mechanism, keeping a diary: ‘As nobody would have noticed, it’s been a decade since I kept a dairy.’ (1) And it has also been a decade since he had matriculated in 1993, a decade since being in the company of the Crazy Eight.
He does attend, of course. Otherwise, the reunion dairy would not have existed. In the hidden corners of his mind, he recalls himself as a schoolboy ‘…lugging his trunk of uncertainties back to school…’ but ‘Now, every bend of the road inspired a memory, a story, a thought, a someone, or some intangible nostalgia about having been there before.’ (72)
The reuniting of the Crazy Eight sparks memories of the four novels preceding this one. Garlic, the gullible, but passionate Malawian, joins forces with the manipulative Rambo, leader of countless suicide missions, to ensure everyone’s attendance. Vern seems to have metamorphosed into an improved version of Rain Man, having to mastered the art of feigning death, Boggo’s weapon of choice remains verbal assaults belittling others, Mad Dog, the wild Limpopo farm boy, is a classic example of a modern Neanderthal, dull Simon is still searching for his lucky star, and Fatty might have outgrown his friendship with the school ghost, but still responds to culinary smells in true Pavlovian fashion.
Because people do not really change, or do they?
With Spud as narrator, the novel explores the themes of nostalgia, metathesiophobia, perceived and putative success, the lines between harmless fun and malicious intent, the desire to belong, and the powerful bonds of brotherhood, spiced with his characteristic wry sense of humour and sardonic world view.
His closing rhetorical question ‘Isn’t this school just a collection of buildings and fields that I’ve personified into some great adversary?’ (323) can have only one answer: It is complicated.
#Uitdieperdsebek
#PanMacmillanSouthAfrica
Love them or hate them, reunions are evocative by their very nature. At the positive end some will remember the good times, as opposed to those determined to rather bury the memories in the past. Although initially determined not to attend after receiving an invitation to a school reunion, Spud (John) Milton, was sufficiently distressed by the avalanche of conflicting emotions that followed, that he reverted to his teenage coping mechanism, keeping a diary: ‘As nobody would have noticed, it’s been a decade since I kept a dairy.’ (1) And it has also been a decade since he had matriculated in 1993, a decade since being in the company of the Crazy Eight.
He does attend, of course. Otherwise, the reunion dairy would not have existed. In the hidden corners of his mind, he recalls himself as a schoolboy ‘…lugging his trunk of uncertainties back to school…’ but ‘Now, every bend of the road inspired a memory, a story, a thought, a someone, or some intangible nostalgia about having been there before.’ (72)
The reuniting of the Crazy Eight sparks memories of the four novels preceding this one. Garlic, the gullible, but passionate Malawian, joins forces with the manipulative Rambo, leader of countless suicide missions, to ensure everyone’s attendance. Vern seems to have metamorphosed into an improved version of Rain Man, having to mastered the art of feigning death, Boggo’s weapon of choice remains verbal assaults belittling others, Mad Dog, the wild Limpopo farm boy, is a classic example of a modern Neanderthal, dull Simon is still searching for his lucky star, and Fatty might have outgrown his friendship with the school ghost, but still responds to culinary smells in true Pavlovian fashion.
Because people do not really change, or do they?
With Spud as narrator, the novel explores the themes of nostalgia, metathesiophobia, perceived and putative success, the lines between harmless fun and malicious intent, the desire to belong, and the powerful bonds of brotherhood, spiced with his characteristic wry sense of humour and sardonic world view.
His closing rhetorical question ‘Isn’t this school just a collection of buildings and fields that I’ve personified into some great adversary?’ (323) can have only one answer: It is complicated.
#Uitdieperdsebek
November 19, 2024
Hilarious, reflective, and nostalgic with a generous helping of mayhem.
John ‘Spud’ Milton heads to his 10 year high school reunion somewhat reluctantly, his career is floundering, his romantic life is non existent and his fears of mingling with his former school mates seem realistic.
As with all things Crazy Eight, a simple reunion will never be simple.
(My highlight was definitely being able to chat to the author on the radio. This book was brilliant!)
John ‘Spud’ Milton heads to his 10 year high school reunion somewhat reluctantly, his career is floundering, his romantic life is non existent and his fears of mingling with his former school mates seem realistic.
As with all things Crazy Eight, a simple reunion will never be simple.
(My highlight was definitely being able to chat to the author on the radio. This book was brilliant!)
December 12, 2024
Where did the time go???
March 2, 2025
I wanted to know. Then when did know, I wanted to unknow. Like growing up and realising your parents are just flawed humans as well.
Worth it and appreciate John van de Ruit tickled the itch for us.
Worth it and appreciate John van de Ruit tickled the itch for us.
October 15, 2025
2.5
I’ve always loved the Spud series, especially as a South African, and have been reading them for years but I don’t understand the direction that this book has taken. I enjoyed the maturity and reasoning of Spud as well as his relationship with his parents. I also found Vern and Wombat hilarious as always. However, these are few things that didn’t sit well with me:
- I could sympathize with Spud’s initial feelings about reuniting but I couldn’t understand the negativity from the group in general. The boys were close friends and left school on a positive and heartwarming note, but the toxic and complicated atmosphere in book 5 was irreconcilable with the other 4 books. The constant bickering felt out of character and even juvenile for a group in their 20s. Especially the theme of a group “leader”
- Rambo’s character seemed way too complex and even struck me as extremely unrealistic. I was disappointed in how it developed and ended.
- Overall the book felt very negative and it bulldozed all the “warm and fuzzies” from the first 4 books. I am not sure why the author went this route but I guess I’ll never know.
I’ve always loved the Spud series, especially as a South African, and have been reading them for years but I don’t understand the direction that this book has taken. I enjoyed the maturity and reasoning of Spud as well as his relationship with his parents. I also found Vern and Wombat hilarious as always. However, these are few things that didn’t sit well with me:
- I could sympathize with Spud’s initial feelings about reuniting but I couldn’t understand the negativity from the group in general. The boys were close friends and left school on a positive and heartwarming note, but the toxic and complicated atmosphere in book 5 was irreconcilable with the other 4 books. The constant bickering felt out of character and even juvenile for a group in their 20s. Especially the theme of a group “leader”
- Rambo’s character seemed way too complex and even struck me as extremely unrealistic. I was disappointed in how it developed and ended.
- Overall the book felt very negative and it bulldozed all the “warm and fuzzies” from the first 4 books. I am not sure why the author went this route but I guess I’ll never know.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2025
Although I'm not usually particularly bothered about neatly-tied endings, this book's middle and latter half took me for a meander through the KZN Midlands that felt aimless at times. Some of the character development happening in the last pages felt rushed / forced and overall I think the plot needed some more workshopping. I did have a few proper laughs, though, as van de Ruit remains incredibly skilled at writing comedy - especially during Spud's Port Alfred Adventures.
May 6, 2026
A slightly nostalgic trip back into the world of John Milton.
While enjoying a strong start, I struggled to enjoy what felt like a missed opportunity to delve into the lives of the characters of the Crazy Eight post-school. The plot felt shallow and the characters have not experienced much growth or change since leaving school ten years earlier. Perhaps this is just personal preference, but it would have been nice to see some of our beloved characters "growing up" as they interacted with the outside world, rather than just cementing themselves deeper into their school-boy traits.
While enjoying a strong start, I struggled to enjoy what felt like a missed opportunity to delve into the lives of the characters of the Crazy Eight post-school. The plot felt shallow and the characters have not experienced much growth or change since leaving school ten years earlier. Perhaps this is just personal preference, but it would have been nice to see some of our beloved characters "growing up" as they interacted with the outside world, rather than just cementing themselves deeper into their school-boy traits.
January 20, 2025
Really disappointed. Was so excited to read this fifth installment that I re-read all four of the previous books again before getting into this one. I like the maturity writing displayed as the older spud but that’s where it ends. The core event of the reunion felt rushed without the light hearted comedy we so used to and the underlying story lacked the depth each of the characters brought to the series previously. This could’ve been a nice read to take the loyalist spud fans back on the Spud journey but sadly this book just doesn’t deliver. The only book of the five in the series that didn’t score 5 stars!
December 26, 2024
Laugh out loud moment in the fifth instalment of Spud. ✅
Memorable LOL moment? “Lilongwe” 🤣
I enjoyed, particularly, Spud’s maturation in his acceptance of his parents. Not many people achieve that despite adulting. Many dissolve into adolescent behaviours when returning to childhood homes.
As for the Crazy Eight, despite that urban legend of a Malawian leopard, spots rarely change. Loved the recapturing of the boys in the men depicted.
A most welcome find in the bookstore this vacation.
Memorable LOL moment? “Lilongwe” 🤣
I enjoyed, particularly, Spud’s maturation in his acceptance of his parents. Not many people achieve that despite adulting. Many dissolve into adolescent behaviours when returning to childhood homes.
As for the Crazy Eight, despite that urban legend of a Malawian leopard, spots rarely change. Loved the recapturing of the boys in the men depicted.
A most welcome find in the bookstore this vacation.
October 12, 2025
DNF.
Might try again in the future, but stopping for now.
The original three books were some of my favourites, but this book was slow and not funny.
Might try again in the future, but stopping for now.
The original three books were some of my favourites, but this book was slow and not funny.
February 21, 2026
Unfortunately a let down after the first 4 in the series. Maybe I grew up but the book actually irritated me ...
December 20, 2024
The Spud series by John van de Ruit has been a beloved favourite since its debut in 2005. The latest instalment, “Spud – The Reunion”, brings back the nostalgia and humour that fans have cherished, focusing on the 10-year reunion of the Crazy Eight.
Summary
In “Spud – The Reunion”, we find John 'Spud' Milton returning to his high school for a reunion with his former classmates, the Crazy Eight. Spud is now ten years older, and with that maturity, he brings a reflective tone to the narrative. His life hasn't exactly panned out as he imagined—his career is floundering, and his romantic life is non-existent. However, the reunion becomes an opportunity to reconnect with his past and see how his friends have fared.
Highlights
- Nostalgic and Hilarious: The book captures the essence of boarding school life with a perfect blend of humour and nostalgia. Van de Ruit’s writing evokes memories of dining hall meals, dormitory pranks, and the angst of school life, making readers laugh and reminisce.
- Character Development: While maintaining the characteristic craziness of the Spud series, this book shows a more mature and introspective side of Spud. The familiar characters, like Spud’s eccentric parents, especially his dad, are still delightfully amusing.
- Realistic and Relatable: The reunion setting allows for a realistic exploration of how people change—or don't—over time. It captures the awkwardness and mixed emotions of meeting old friends and confronting past memories.
- Themes of Reflection: Spud's reflections on his past and present life add depth to the humour. The themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the enduring bonds of friendship are beautifully woven into the story.
Themes
- Nostalgia and Growth: The novel explores the bittersweet nature of looking back on one's youth, contrasting the wild, carefree days with the responsibilities and challenges of adulthood.
- Friendship and Brotherhood: The powerful bonds formed during school days are a central theme. The Crazy Eight's antics and loyalty to each other highlight the importance of these enduring friendships.
- Self-Discovery: Spud's journey is also one of self-discovery as he navigates his past memories and current struggles, seeking a sense of purpose and identity.
Conclusion
“Spud – The Reunion” is a hilarious, reflective, and nostalgic addition to the Spud series. John van de Ruit’s skilful storytelling brings back beloved characters and settings while adding a layer of maturity and introspection. Fans of the series will treasure this reunion with Spud and his friends, finding both laughter and poignant moments in their journey.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this book offers a delightful escape into the world of Spud, filled with humour, heartfelt moments, and a touch of South African charm.
With thanks to Pan MacMillan SA for the opportunity to read this book.
*PS – I can highly recommend listening to the audiobook as well, it is brilliantly narrated by Joe Vaz.
#RoeliaReads #fortheloveofspud #SpudTheReunion #CrazyEight #JohnvandeRuit
Summary
In “Spud – The Reunion”, we find John 'Spud' Milton returning to his high school for a reunion with his former classmates, the Crazy Eight. Spud is now ten years older, and with that maturity, he brings a reflective tone to the narrative. His life hasn't exactly panned out as he imagined—his career is floundering, and his romantic life is non-existent. However, the reunion becomes an opportunity to reconnect with his past and see how his friends have fared.
Highlights
- Nostalgic and Hilarious: The book captures the essence of boarding school life with a perfect blend of humour and nostalgia. Van de Ruit’s writing evokes memories of dining hall meals, dormitory pranks, and the angst of school life, making readers laugh and reminisce.
- Character Development: While maintaining the characteristic craziness of the Spud series, this book shows a more mature and introspective side of Spud. The familiar characters, like Spud’s eccentric parents, especially his dad, are still delightfully amusing.
- Realistic and Relatable: The reunion setting allows for a realistic exploration of how people change—or don't—over time. It captures the awkwardness and mixed emotions of meeting old friends and confronting past memories.
- Themes of Reflection: Spud's reflections on his past and present life add depth to the humour. The themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the enduring bonds of friendship are beautifully woven into the story.
Themes
- Nostalgia and Growth: The novel explores the bittersweet nature of looking back on one's youth, contrasting the wild, carefree days with the responsibilities and challenges of adulthood.
- Friendship and Brotherhood: The powerful bonds formed during school days are a central theme. The Crazy Eight's antics and loyalty to each other highlight the importance of these enduring friendships.
- Self-Discovery: Spud's journey is also one of self-discovery as he navigates his past memories and current struggles, seeking a sense of purpose and identity.
Conclusion
“Spud – The Reunion” is a hilarious, reflective, and nostalgic addition to the Spud series. John van de Ruit’s skilful storytelling brings back beloved characters and settings while adding a layer of maturity and introspection. Fans of the series will treasure this reunion with Spud and his friends, finding both laughter and poignant moments in their journey.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this book offers a delightful escape into the world of Spud, filled with humour, heartfelt moments, and a touch of South African charm.
With thanks to Pan MacMillan SA for the opportunity to read this book.
*PS – I can highly recommend listening to the audiobook as well, it is brilliantly narrated by Joe Vaz.
#RoeliaReads #fortheloveofspud #SpudTheReunion #CrazyEight #JohnvandeRuit
September 14, 2026
When Spud: The reunion, was published, I was very much in two minds: do I read it and risk possible bitter disappointment, or do I not read it and risk missing another excellent Spud novel?
In the end, I decided not to read it. I loved the Crazy Eight and their adventures, and I was happy to close the door and say goodbye to a bunch of schoolboys.
When I saw Spud, Two for the road, in Bargain Books’ window, I decided what the heck, it will probably be just as hilarious as the first four books. Long story short, I bought it and just couldn’t finish it.
Against my better judgement, I bought a copy of Spud: The reunion, because I thought maybe the last book would have made more sense if I have actually read The Reunion. I was wrong.
It wasn’t so much that the characters have changed beyond recognition, or that the story dragged on and on, or that Rambo’s “my brother” was even more irritating than Spud entertaining a soon-to-be divorced-with-kids Mermaid.
It was the errors. The obvious mistakes. It was Spud’s matric dance tuxedo that suddenly became his father’s wedding outfit (Spud rented his tuxedo from a store where his dad bargained for a discount that was foiled by the VAT).
It was the expelled Mad Dog who never matriculated but somehow owned an Old Boys tie and who somehow got invited to a reunion, despite getting the boot in second year.
It was Spud pointing out to Garlic that he had never laid eyes on Eve because she’d left before Garlic got to school. (Garlic did know Eve because she was very much still at the school during their final year. In fact, her office was so close to Spud’s room that he was constantly hoping to bump into her. And Eve performed aptitude tests on the matrics and even arranged job experience for them.)
It was Viking who allegedly liked Spud's solo so much that he cast him as Oliver the "following year". Spud was cast as Oliver in his first year, not in the following year.
That is how far I got. I couldn’t finish The reunion either. Fact checking, much .....? Loyal Spud fans' intelligence have been underestimated, I feel.
I understand that quitting while you’re ahead asks for guts and wisdom, but in my opinion, the last two Spud novels should never have seen the light of day. The author tried to ride the Spud wave, but that wave has been long gone. Better just make peace with it.
In the end, I decided not to read it. I loved the Crazy Eight and their adventures, and I was happy to close the door and say goodbye to a bunch of schoolboys.
When I saw Spud, Two for the road, in Bargain Books’ window, I decided what the heck, it will probably be just as hilarious as the first four books. Long story short, I bought it and just couldn’t finish it.
Against my better judgement, I bought a copy of Spud: The reunion, because I thought maybe the last book would have made more sense if I have actually read The Reunion. I was wrong.
It wasn’t so much that the characters have changed beyond recognition, or that the story dragged on and on, or that Rambo’s “my brother” was even more irritating than Spud entertaining a soon-to-be divorced-with-kids Mermaid.
It was the errors. The obvious mistakes. It was Spud’s matric dance tuxedo that suddenly became his father’s wedding outfit (Spud rented his tuxedo from a store where his dad bargained for a discount that was foiled by the VAT).
It was the expelled Mad Dog who never matriculated but somehow owned an Old Boys tie and who somehow got invited to a reunion, despite getting the boot in second year.
It was Spud pointing out to Garlic that he had never laid eyes on Eve because she’d left before Garlic got to school. (Garlic did know Eve because she was very much still at the school during their final year. In fact, her office was so close to Spud’s room that he was constantly hoping to bump into her. And Eve performed aptitude tests on the matrics and even arranged job experience for them.)
It was Viking who allegedly liked Spud's solo so much that he cast him as Oliver the "following year". Spud was cast as Oliver in his first year, not in the following year.
That is how far I got. I couldn’t finish The reunion either. Fact checking, much .....? Loyal Spud fans' intelligence have been underestimated, I feel.
I understand that quitting while you’re ahead asks for guts and wisdom, but in my opinion, the last two Spud novels should never have seen the light of day. The author tried to ride the Spud wave, but that wave has been long gone. Better just make peace with it.
January 3, 2025
It’s been 10 years since Spud left his prestigious private school to embark on a life of success. Only thing is, Spud is currently working as a clown in a supermarket, not exactly the Oscar-winning career as an actor Spud imagined. It is, however, time for his 10-year school reunion which Spud has no interest in. The calls and SMS’s coming from the Crazy 8 is becoming overwhelming – come to the school reunion! Garlic took it upon himself to organise accommodation, an itinerary that left no space for breathing and will be paying for everything. Why on earth will Spud not come?
Even though school was supposed to be fantastic, full of lessons-for-later-in-life and friendships-that-lasts-a-lifetime, Spud thinks back to his school days with dread. It was hard and left more than one physical and emotional scars, why would one want to relive those days? After much contemplation, discussions with his dad and incessant phone calls from Garlic, Spud gives in and decides to join the chaos of a reunion weekend. I mean, it’s just one weekend, right?
Reuniting with the Crazy 8 was not as expected, yet exactly as expected. People have changed yet still stayed the same. Will this 28-year-old Crazy Eight be able to get along without someone to navigate the peace? It made for a weekend of complete chaos, drama, metathesiophobia, mistrust and introspection, a weekend they will not forget for a long time.
My thoughts: To read the thoughts of a more mature Spud was quite a change from the high school diaries. Reading about the lives of the Crazy Eight again brought back a lot of nostalgia. I really enjoyed reading this book, even though the tone was quite different from what I’m used to.
Even though school was supposed to be fantastic, full of lessons-for-later-in-life and friendships-that-lasts-a-lifetime, Spud thinks back to his school days with dread. It was hard and left more than one physical and emotional scars, why would one want to relive those days? After much contemplation, discussions with his dad and incessant phone calls from Garlic, Spud gives in and decides to join the chaos of a reunion weekend. I mean, it’s just one weekend, right?
Reuniting with the Crazy 8 was not as expected, yet exactly as expected. People have changed yet still stayed the same. Will this 28-year-old Crazy Eight be able to get along without someone to navigate the peace? It made for a weekend of complete chaos, drama, metathesiophobia, mistrust and introspection, a weekend they will not forget for a long time.
My thoughts: To read the thoughts of a more mature Spud was quite a change from the high school diaries. Reading about the lives of the Crazy Eight again brought back a lot of nostalgia. I really enjoyed reading this book, even though the tone was quite different from what I’m used to.
September 9, 2025
Summary: What a complicated bunch of people.
I enjoyed the Spud reunion. It's been about a decade since I read the last four books, so this felt like a Spud reunion for myself. [Mind you, it's also a decade since I left school]. It's amazing how 10 years later, each character continues to have their own unique, memorable personality. They feel real. It felt good to spend time with them again and see how they're doing.
Despite the moments of craziness, the tone of this 5th book felt realistic. I loved the reflective elements. Spud's voice actually felt like my voice at times, and I could fully empathise with a lot of the characters' conflicted feelings about seeing each other again. They're THE CRAZY EIGHT, and they have a bond like no other - but those relationships are also toxic af. And yet you can't throw any of the toxic characters away even though you really want to (Rambo, I'm talking about you ... but actually most of them when you think about it ... mad dog should be locked up) because then The Crazy Eight would cease to exist - which is sad because they were such a special group.
John van de Ruit is fantastic at the psychology element. Part of the reason the reunion works is because he did such a fantastic job building the characters up in the other four books. Like I said, what a complicated bunch of people.
A question for John: Were the crazy eight + gecko developed around the Enneagram system. I reckon each character fits a different type.
I enjoyed the Spud reunion. It's been about a decade since I read the last four books, so this felt like a Spud reunion for myself. [Mind you, it's also a decade since I left school]. It's amazing how 10 years later, each character continues to have their own unique, memorable personality. They feel real. It felt good to spend time with them again and see how they're doing.
Despite the moments of craziness, the tone of this 5th book felt realistic. I loved the reflective elements. Spud's voice actually felt like my voice at times, and I could fully empathise with a lot of the characters' conflicted feelings about seeing each other again. They're THE CRAZY EIGHT, and they have a bond like no other - but those relationships are also toxic af. And yet you can't throw any of the toxic characters away even though you really want to (Rambo, I'm talking about you ... but actually most of them when you think about it ... mad dog should be locked up) because then The Crazy Eight would cease to exist - which is sad because they were such a special group.
John van de Ruit is fantastic at the psychology element. Part of the reason the reunion works is because he did such a fantastic job building the characters up in the other four books. Like I said, what a complicated bunch of people.
A question for John: Were the crazy eight + gecko developed around the Enneagram system. I reckon each character fits a different type.
January 10, 2025
This book brought back so much nostalgia and memories of the previous books and movies. Its made me want to watch them all over again.
Ten Years later, Spud Milton gets a letter in the post (it is 2003 and post was still somewhat reliable) about his 10 year High School Reunion.... much to his dismay. He is just not interested, but after some deep reflection (a fishing trip with his dad, he relents and agrees to attend). Viewing these much loved characters, now older has been interesting.
Vern has been his brilliant self and for me, the hero and highlight of this book with his rain man / cretin antics. From pretty much living with each other in boarding school and being the Crazy 8, to almost strangers 10 years later, they lean on their memories of who the person was, rather than getting to know the person now (guys). Everyone being put into a role that no longer fits them, well except Vern. lol
A brilliant way to end the series and to give us a weekend with the Crazy 8. I loved the small easter eggs that the Author put in on his journey as part of Spud's.
Ten Years later, Spud Milton gets a letter in the post (it is 2003 and post was still somewhat reliable) about his 10 year High School Reunion.... much to his dismay. He is just not interested, but after some deep reflection (a fishing trip with his dad, he relents and agrees to attend). Viewing these much loved characters, now older has been interesting.
Vern has been his brilliant self and for me, the hero and highlight of this book with his rain man / cretin antics. From pretty much living with each other in boarding school and being the Crazy 8, to almost strangers 10 years later, they lean on their memories of who the person was, rather than getting to know the person now (guys). Everyone being put into a role that no longer fits them, well except Vern. lol
A brilliant way to end the series and to give us a weekend with the Crazy 8. I loved the small easter eggs that the Author put in on his journey as part of Spud's.
July 2, 2026
I loved the Spud books when they first came out. There were funny, realistic and very South African. While Spud's dad is still hilarious in this book I just felt disappointed. The first half dragged for me, it got a bit better when they were at the reunion but Rambo's whole plan came to nothing and it just felt like a bunch of childish guys going to their reunion to act like kids again. Sorry but I found the story pointless. I wanted to like this book but sadly didn't and to be honest if he writes another book about the Crazy Eight's 20th reunion I don't think I'll read it.
February 23, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
I was really hoping for some major plot twist like (Vern being sane), but no, nothing like that.
There was also no character development which has left me disappointed.. Spud seems to be the only person who has actually grown into an adult.
Still a very funny series and one of my favourites as a teen. Would recommend this series to anyone looking for a quick, easy, and fun read.
I was really hoping for some major plot twist like (Vern being sane), but no, nothing like that.
There was also no character development which has left me disappointed.. Spud seems to be the only person who has actually grown into an adult.
Still a very funny series and one of my favourites as a teen. Would recommend this series to anyone looking for a quick, easy, and fun read.
April 19, 2025
I was so disappointed. I read and re read spud to laugh and have fun with a light read so when I saw this I expected the same.
Of course there were funny parts, fun parts and ludicrous ones too but the overall tone was so dark. It was all about spuds melancholic adulthood and a bizarre over focus on Rambos darkness.
One short interaction with the Guv? Come on, I am dying to spend some quality time in the guvs lounge with a roaring fire, wine and even more roaring laughter.
Of course there were funny parts, fun parts and ludicrous ones too but the overall tone was so dark. It was all about spuds melancholic adulthood and a bizarre over focus on Rambos darkness.
One short interaction with the Guv? Come on, I am dying to spend some quality time in the guvs lounge with a roaring fire, wine and even more roaring laughter.
June 16, 2025
I was really looking forward to this book as I loved all the previous ones. It's an extremely slow start, so it took me a while to get into it and never really, actually hooked me. I was a bit disappointed how Spud turns out. His younger days had so much hope of a great future. Think the whole groups antics are hilarious in school because you have hope their underdog futures are bright, but as adults, it's just a bit sad. Guess that makes it more realistic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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