Kids' book of the month

Our pick for September is the first in a fabulously funny new series from comedian, entertainer and national trinket, Julian Clary, and is poised to take the children’s book world by storm.

Mr and Mrs Bold are just like you and me: they live in a nice house (in Teddington), they have jobs (like writing Christmas cracker jokes) and they love to have a bit of a giggle.

One slight difference: they’re hyenas. Yes, that’s right - they’re covered in fur, have tails tucked into their trousers, and they really, really like to laugh.

So far, the Bolds have managed to keep things under wraps, even when their children Bobby and Betty were born. But the nosy man next door smells a rat (or a hyena), and a trip to the local wildlife park, and the brilliantly wacky heist that results, could be the end of Teddington’s best-kept secret. Whatever will the neighbours think?

Julian Clary is a comedian, entertainer and novelist, who has toured the world with his one-man shows. He has appeared on numerous popular TV shows including Celebrity Big Brother (which he won), Strictly Come Dancing, QI, Have I Got News For You and is a regular panelist on BBC Radio 4’s Just a Minute. He has starred in West End and appears in panto most years – he loves wearing silly clothes and lots of make up! Julian also narrates the Little Princess children’s television series. He lives in Kent with his partner, dogs and several chickens.

David Roberts is an award-winning illustrator who has earned great acclaim for his distinctive style. Originally a milliner and fashion illustrator, David always felt his true calling was in children’s books. David has collaborated with some of Britain’s finest children’s authors, including Julia Donaldson, Sally Gardner, Philip Ardagh and Jacqueline Wilson. He is also the creator of the popular Dirty Bertie books. He lives in London with his partner.

The Bolds is available from all good booksellers and you can find out more here.