The Brilliant World of Tom Gates: questions to ask and activities to try
Tom Gates is a master of doodles and excuses. The Brilliant World of Tom Gates is the first in the bestselling doodle-diary series.
What age is it for? The Brilliant World of Tom Gates is best for ages 8–11. Good for: Doodles, excuses and a band called Dogzombies.
The Brilliant World of Tom Gates (Liz Pichon)
- Age
- 8-11
- Best for
- Doodles, excuses and a band called Dogzombies
Let your child read it their way. Afterwards, doodle together.
What it helps with
- Reading for fun
- Creativity and doodling
- Family and school
- 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.
- “Who is Tom?”
- “What’s his band?”
- “Who annoys him?”
- “What excuses did he make?”
- “Which doodle was best?”
- “What would your band be called?”
5-minute activities to try together
Doodle page
Fill a page with doodles about your day.
Band poster
Design a poster for your own band.
Free printables: The Brilliant World of Tom Gates 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.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
Barry Loser: I Am Not a Loser (Jim Smith)
- Best for
- Coolness, friendship and an annoying new boy
- Age
- 7-10
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.