Barry Loser: I Am Not a Loser: questions to ask and activities to try
Barry Loser's coolness cancels out his name, until Darren Darrenofski arrives. Barry Loser is a Roald Dahl Funny Prize-winning school story.
What age is it for? Barry Loser: I Am Not a Loser is best for ages 7–10. Good for: Coolness, friendship and an annoying new boy.
Barry Loser: I Am Not a Loser (Jim Smith)
- Age
- 7-10
- Best for
- Coolness, friendship and an annoying new boy
Read a chapter at a time and enjoy Barry's voice. Talk about whether he's as cool as he thinks.
What it helps with
- Friendship and rivalry
- Self-image
- School life
- Humour
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Why isn’t Barry bothered by his name?”
- “Who is Darren?”
- “What went wrong?”
- “Was Barry fair?”
- “Who’s his real friend?”
- “What makes someone cool?”
5-minute activities to try together
Cool rules
Write Barry's rules for being cool, then your own.
Doodle diary
Write a diary page with doodles.
Free printables: Barry Loser: I Am Not a Loser worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Horrid Henry (Francesca Simon and Tony Ross)
- Best for
- A very naughty boy, and laughing at bad behaviour
- Age
- 6-8
The Accidental Diary of B.U.G. (Jen Carney)
- Best for
- Friendship, school and family in a funny diary
- Age
- 7-10
The 13-Storey Treehouse (Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton)
- Best for
- A ridiculous treehouse and laugh-out-loud adventures
- Age
- 6-9
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.