Review:

Grumps by Glyn Davies is a delightful mix of comedy, chaos, and community spirit. I picked it up on a whim and ended up completely drawn into the quirky world of Arthur Pickering—a giant of a man with an even bigger personality. Set in 1974, the story feels nostalgic but surprisingly relevant, with Arthur becoming an accidental protector of school kids and a walking nightmare for impatient drivers.

What I loved most was the balance between humor and heart. Arthur’s black book made me laugh, especially how everyone feared ending up in it. But beneath his rough exterior, there’s a deep sense of justice. He doesn’t just scare people—he cares, especially about children and their safety. That mix of unpredictability and purpose makes him unforgettable.

It’s not just a story—it’s an experience. Glyn Davies writes with a light touch, letting the characters shine without overcomplicating things. If you enjoy stories where ordinary streets become stages for extraordinary characters, this book is a must-read.

Rating: 5/5

𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: Grumps
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Glyn Davies

𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
“Grumps” by Glyn Davies is a short and engaging read set in the year 1974. The story revolves around its larger-than-life main character, Arthur Pickering—nicknamed Grumps—who stands an imposing six foot seven. Beloved by children and loathed by motorists, Arthur is a force to be reckoned with. In fact, taxi and bus drivers go out of their way to avoid crossing paths with him.

Arthur regularly positions himself in the middle of the road, halting traffic to safely escort mothers and their children across to the school gates. Tucked in his top pocket is a notorious little black book, where he keeps the names of those who have caught his attention—often for the wrong reasons—and who may expect some form of future reckoning. When a passenger once honked the horn of taxi driver Dave Lewis, Dave feared his name would end up in that dreaded book.

Arthur’s presence alone is enough to unsettle people; they never quite know what he’ll do next. The book follows a number of such encounters, each showing how Arthur’s larger-than-life personality affects those around him.

It’s a one-of-a-kind read. I especially enjoyed seeing Arthur’s dedication to helping children cross the road safely. The storyline is fun and full of character. Glyn Davies’ sharp wit and humour shine throughout the book, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. I read it over the weekend and thoroughly enjoyed every page.

𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5