What This Book Is About
Joe Spud is twelve years old and the richest boy in the country. His dad made billions from inventing a revolutionary new toilet paper called "Bumfresh," and now Joe has everything money can buy: a Formula One racing car, his own cinema, a butler named Raj, and a crocodile instead of a dog. But Joe is desperately unhappy. At his exclusive private school, he has no real friends because nobody can see past his fortune. Everyone either wants something from him or is intimidated by his wealth.
So Joe hatches a plan. He persuades his dad to let him attend the local comprehensive school, where he enrolls under a false name and wears second-hand clothes. For the first time, Joe discovers what it feels like to be liked for who he is, not what he owns. He makes a real friend in Bob, a kind but poor boy who shares his lunch without expecting anything in return. But secrets have a way of coming out, and when Joe's true identity is revealed, he must learn the hardest lesson of all: that genuine friendship is the one thing money can never buy. David Walliams delivers another classic, illustrated with Tony Ross's signature wit, that is equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Billionaire Boy tackles themes of wealth, privilege, and authentic friendship that are remarkably relevant to students in Singapore's international school community. Many UWC students come from affluent families and navigate social dynamics where status and material possessions can complicate genuine connections. Joe's story provides a safe, humorous space to reflect on what truly matters in friendship.
As a reading tool, Walliams's accessible prose and Tony Ross's illustrations make this an ideal stepping stone for G4 students moving from short story collections to full-length novels. The humor keeps readers engaged through 278 pages, building the stamina needed for more demanding texts later. And the central message aligns perfectly with UWC's values: that empathy, kindness, and being yourself matter far more than wealth or status.
Reading Level Guide
Building up to this book. Try The World's Worst Children (same author, shorter stories) first to get used to Walliams's style.
Perfect difficulty. The Lexile of 640L and Walliams's clear, punchy writing make this an ideal A2 novel.
A comfortable, fun read at B1. Great for pleasure reading. Try Space Case or Inside Out & Back Again for more challenge.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.