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Finn's Epic Fails: The hilarious new series packed with school fails, friendship, pranks and chaos!
A hilarious new series by award-winning author Phil Earle which introduces Finn N. O. Hope and his life of epic failure! Perfect for readers of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Loki and Tom Gates.
?Finn just wants to survive Year 7, but his life is destined to be a series of epic fails. It's only Tuesday and his scheming, unicorn-obsessed little sister has already stuck a horn to his head (with superglue) and his properly evil older brother has wedgied him 278 times. And don't even ask what happened at swimming, in front of the WHOLE CLASS. At least he has best friends Laszlo (a hopeless romantic) and Google (ask her anything) by his side as he attempts to turn failure into victory in his very own book that is definitely not a diary.
‘A comedy classic and hilarious page-turner from a genuinely brilliant writer.’ Liz Pichon, author of Tom Gates series
‘Pure comedy genius – Finn's Epic Fails will have you howling with laughter and cheering for more! This book belongs on every kid's bookshelf!’ – Jenny Pearson, author of The Super Miraculous Journey of Freddie Yates
‘Failure has never been this funny. Finn is my new hero!’ – Rob Biddulph, author of Draw With Rob
WHAT TO
Illustrations by the brilliant and hilarious AL MUPRHYMortifying momentsLaughter guaranteedDisastrous supply teachersA stinky stray dog who may just be the PERFECT best friendPRANKS!Mates who save the dayOFF THE SCALE FAILOMETERS!!!And much more…!
When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle won the 2022 British Book Award for Children's Fiction Book of the Year, the Books Are My Bag Readers Award and the Times Children's Book of the Year.
?Finn just wants to survive Year 7, but his life is destined to be a series of epic fails. It's only Tuesday and his scheming, unicorn-obsessed little sister has already stuck a horn to his head (with superglue) and his properly evil older brother has wedgied him 278 times. And don't even ask what happened at swimming, in front of the WHOLE CLASS. At least he has best friends Laszlo (a hopeless romantic) and Google (ask her anything) by his side as he attempts to turn failure into victory in his very own book that is definitely not a diary.
‘A comedy classic and hilarious page-turner from a genuinely brilliant writer.’ Liz Pichon, author of Tom Gates series
‘Pure comedy genius – Finn's Epic Fails will have you howling with laughter and cheering for more! This book belongs on every kid's bookshelf!’ – Jenny Pearson, author of The Super Miraculous Journey of Freddie Yates
‘Failure has never been this funny. Finn is my new hero!’ – Rob Biddulph, author of Draw With Rob
WHAT TO
Illustrations by the brilliant and hilarious AL MUPRHYMortifying momentsLaughter guaranteedDisastrous supply teachersA stinky stray dog who may just be the PERFECT best friendPRANKS!Mates who save the dayOFF THE SCALE FAILOMETERS!!!And much more…!
When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle won the 2022 British Book Award for Children's Fiction Book of the Year, the Books Are My Bag Readers Award and the Times Children's Book of the Year.
- GenresHumor
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2026
4 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Phil Earle
48 books106 followersPhil was born in Hull in 1974, and he studied English and Drama at Hull University. He worked for a year as a carer in a children’s home, then after training as a drama therapist, he worked in a therapeutic community in London, which cared for multiply abused adolescents. Then, changing tack completely, he chose a marginally more sedate life as a children’s bookseller. It was here that he developed an obsession for kid’s literature, in particular, young adult fiction.
After three years at Ottakar’s, he became a sales rep, and then a key account manager for Transworld/Random House, and is now sales director at Simon and Schuster Children’s Books.
Phil lives in South East London with his wife and three young children.
After three years at Ottakar’s, he became a sales rep, and then a key account manager for Transworld/Random House, and is now sales director at Simon and Schuster Children’s Books.
Phil lives in South East London with his wife and three young children.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Review of advance copy
Finn’s Epic Fails is one of those books that doesn’t pretend to be profound but still manages to sneak in some surprisingly thoughtful moments. It’s funny in a very earnest, awkward way, leaning hard into second-hand embarrassment, mishaps, and the kind of “why would you do that?” decisions that feel painfully relatable.
Finn is an easy character to root for, even when he’s making terrible choices (arguably because he’s making terrible choices). The humor lands best when it’s poking fun at insecurity, friendship, and the messy process of figuring yourself out. While some jokes and plot beats are a little predictable, the charm more than makes up for it.
It’s a fast, light read with heart perfect if you’re in the mood for something fun, self-aware, and gently affirming. Not flawless, but genuinely enjoyable and easy to recommend.
Finn is an easy character to root for, even when he’s making terrible choices (arguably because he’s making terrible choices). The humor lands best when it’s poking fun at insecurity, friendship, and the messy process of figuring yourself out. While some jokes and plot beats are a little predictable, the charm more than makes up for it.
It’s a fast, light read with heart perfect if you’re in the mood for something fun, self-aware, and gently affirming. Not flawless, but genuinely enjoyable and easy to recommend.
February 2, 2026
What a banger, what a laugh. Way to go Phil for filling a gap in the market that desperately needed filling. This is Lottie Brooks for boys, and it’s brilliant!
February 4, 2026
2.75
it was fine but I'm obviously not the target audience.
it was fine but I'm obviously not the target audience.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a brilliantly funny and heartwarming story that will make readers laugh while also celebrating friendship and being yourself.
The writing is lively and full of humour with main character Finn’s mishaps told in a playful and enjoyable way. He is very likeable, and his determination and imagination make it easy to cheer him on throughout the story.
The book has a warm, positive message about belonging, resilience, and accepting who you are. The friendships feel genuine, and the story is full of moments that are both hilarious and touching.
Overall, this is a delightful, feel-good read that will leave you smiling.
The writing is lively and full of humour with main character Finn’s mishaps told in a playful and enjoyable way. He is very likeable, and his determination and imagination make it easy to cheer him on throughout the story.
The book has a warm, positive message about belonging, resilience, and accepting who you are. The friendships feel genuine, and the story is full of moments that are both hilarious and touching.
Overall, this is a delightful, feel-good read that will leave you smiling.
January 30, 2026
Absolutely hilarious. Bought this for the year 6 class but had to read first. I could not put it down and had totally laugh out load moments.
November 28, 2025
REVIEW ONE
Phil Earle turns misfortune into art in Fin’s Epic Fails. He delivers laugh-out-loud moments with a helping of heart. His writing crackles with quick wit and comic timing. Under the humour lies a tender exploration of growing up, friendship, and the bravery of trying again.
REVIEW TWO
This book was a delight in turning disaster into delight through great narration. There is lots of personality. It is awkward, funny, and honest. The writer, Earle captures the inner monologue of a boy in constant chaos with a rhythm like he wants to confess to a bad day seemingly lasting forever. The book feels authentic and irresistibly engaging. I couldn't put it down. When's the sequel coming?
REVIEW THREE
We've all had disasters. We each have had days that drag and drag and seem to go wrong. Every mini-disaster feels cinematic, building towards a finale that lands both comically and emotionally. Phil Earle ensures that there’s never a dull page. His pacing mirrors Fin’s frantic energy. The short, snappy chapters are perfect for readers who like their humour quick and their tension playful. A page-turner powered by panic and punchlines.
REVIEW FOUR
Behind Fin’s comic chaos lies a huge heart. His failures are often acts of kindness gone wrong. This revealing an empathetic boy desperate to make things better. Earle balances the laughs with emotion This reminds us as readers that compassion can often look messy. We're shown to learn from loss and mistakes.
REVIEW FIVE
Fin’s misadventures illustrate that failure is not final. Earle crafts a gentle life lesson through hilarity, encouraging resilience. It is not preaching! This is perfect for classrooms or parents who want to show kids that mistakes build character. In some ways comedy never cheapens emotion, and emotion never dulls the fun. Earle writes with the balance of a dramatist. He blends embarrassment and endearment that could be found in modern classics like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. There is lots of Earle’s trademark warmth and Northern humour on show. It mixes half laughter with half heartfelt moments.
REVIEW SIX
I used to hate reading. This is one for my fellow reluctant readers. With its brisk chapters, zany situations, and punchy dialogue, Fin’s Epic Fails is tailor-made for reluctant readers. Earle’s simple, sharp story ensures inclusivity without sacrificing charm. A book that reminds every young reader that reading can be fun, fast, and full of heart. This book that turns reading into a comedy sport. The school scenes are hilariously true. Our school can be a place of chaotic assemblies, classroom blunders, and playground politics. Earle nails the tone of real British school life, making every cringe-worthy moment feel both exaggerated and utterly authentic.
Phil Earle turns misfortune into art in Fin’s Epic Fails. He delivers laugh-out-loud moments with a helping of heart. His writing crackles with quick wit and comic timing. Under the humour lies a tender exploration of growing up, friendship, and the bravery of trying again.
REVIEW TWO
This book was a delight in turning disaster into delight through great narration. There is lots of personality. It is awkward, funny, and honest. The writer, Earle captures the inner monologue of a boy in constant chaos with a rhythm like he wants to confess to a bad day seemingly lasting forever. The book feels authentic and irresistibly engaging. I couldn't put it down. When's the sequel coming?
REVIEW THREE
We've all had disasters. We each have had days that drag and drag and seem to go wrong. Every mini-disaster feels cinematic, building towards a finale that lands both comically and emotionally. Phil Earle ensures that there’s never a dull page. His pacing mirrors Fin’s frantic energy. The short, snappy chapters are perfect for readers who like their humour quick and their tension playful. A page-turner powered by panic and punchlines.
REVIEW FOUR
Behind Fin’s comic chaos lies a huge heart. His failures are often acts of kindness gone wrong. This revealing an empathetic boy desperate to make things better. Earle balances the laughs with emotion This reminds us as readers that compassion can often look messy. We're shown to learn from loss and mistakes.
REVIEW FIVE
Fin’s misadventures illustrate that failure is not final. Earle crafts a gentle life lesson through hilarity, encouraging resilience. It is not preaching! This is perfect for classrooms or parents who want to show kids that mistakes build character. In some ways comedy never cheapens emotion, and emotion never dulls the fun. Earle writes with the balance of a dramatist. He blends embarrassment and endearment that could be found in modern classics like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. There is lots of Earle’s trademark warmth and Northern humour on show. It mixes half laughter with half heartfelt moments.
REVIEW SIX
I used to hate reading. This is one for my fellow reluctant readers. With its brisk chapters, zany situations, and punchy dialogue, Fin’s Epic Fails is tailor-made for reluctant readers. Earle’s simple, sharp story ensures inclusivity without sacrificing charm. A book that reminds every young reader that reading can be fun, fast, and full of heart. This book that turns reading into a comedy sport. The school scenes are hilariously true. Our school can be a place of chaotic assemblies, classroom blunders, and playground politics. Earle nails the tone of real British school life, making every cringe-worthy moment feel both exaggerated and utterly authentic.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Read this with the 9 year old grandson and we giggled all the way through. Perfect next step chapter book for fans of Tom Gates and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Short chapters, good use made of bold and different fonts with the text broken up with black & white drawings and illustrations.
Pleased to see this is going to be a series as it will make a popular addition to the school library. Ideal for 8 - 12 years/middle grade.
Pleased to see this is going to be a series as it will make a popular addition to the school library. Ideal for 8 - 12 years/middle grade.
August 7, 2025
This is a very silly book and kids will LOVE it. It had me laughing out loud in places and chuckling for most of the rest of it. I was slightly uncomfortable with the "bullying" aspect from Finn's brother, but a great moral ending nevertheless.
December 5, 2025
Kids will love this book. I can relate to Finn especially because we both have a PE teacher from hell. Those who love Loki and the Wimpy Kid will definitely love this one.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Brilliant!! I mean its Phil Earle, so of course it is!
January 31, 2026
Ups and downs and daily embarrassments of a growing 11yo boy and dealing with a bullying older brother. This was lots of fun!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Finn’s Epic Fails
Written by Phil Earle
Illustrated by Al Murphy
Published by Simon & Schuster Ltd
This is the first in a hilarious new middle grade series from Phil Earle, which tells of the trials and tribulations of a Year seven boy, Finn N. O. Hope the most unlucky boy around!
His life is FULL of epic fails, as he tries to survive secondary school with numerous mortifying moments thrust upon him.
This story is full of laugh out loud moments any Year seven upwards can relate to. Perfect for readers of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Loki and Tom Gates.
Jokes and pranks come Finns way thick and fast. From his unicorn-obsessed little sister, disastrous supply teachers and his evil older brother, life for Finn is just one EPIC FAIL!
With glue and felt tip pens, a rogue dog and the most embarrassing swimming session ever the only hope and support Finn has is from his best friends Laszlo (always in love) and Google (she knows everything!)
Superbly written and brilliantly illustrated, this laugh out loud story of mishaps and mayhem will give any reader the best feeling ever! Whether you are a young reader (or a little older testing it out for others) expect the unexpected and you will have the most fun lost in someone else’s world!
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
Written by Phil Earle
Illustrated by Al Murphy
Published by Simon & Schuster Ltd
This is the first in a hilarious new middle grade series from Phil Earle, which tells of the trials and tribulations of a Year seven boy, Finn N. O. Hope the most unlucky boy around!
His life is FULL of epic fails, as he tries to survive secondary school with numerous mortifying moments thrust upon him.
This story is full of laugh out loud moments any Year seven upwards can relate to. Perfect for readers of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Loki and Tom Gates.
Jokes and pranks come Finns way thick and fast. From his unicorn-obsessed little sister, disastrous supply teachers and his evil older brother, life for Finn is just one EPIC FAIL!
With glue and felt tip pens, a rogue dog and the most embarrassing swimming session ever the only hope and support Finn has is from his best friends Laszlo (always in love) and Google (she knows everything!)
Superbly written and brilliantly illustrated, this laugh out loud story of mishaps and mayhem will give any reader the best feeling ever! Whether you are a young reader (or a little older testing it out for others) expect the unexpected and you will have the most fun lost in someone else’s world!
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
December 7, 2025
Lots of fun. I'll be able to handsell this very happily
November 9, 2025
This was properly EPIC. Poor Finn. Everything going wrong all the time - from fails at school, to a mean big brother, his little sister turning him into a unicorn….. I cackled numerous times! @philearle is a bloody brilliant author and this is SO GOOD. It’s not out til January, but it’ll be WELL worth the wait!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews