Gangsta Granny

Story

Ben hates being sent to stay with his boring old Granny every Friday night. She gives him far too much cabbage and her TV doesn’t work. But when he finds diamonds hidden in the biscuit tin, Ben starts to think that there might be more to his Granny than meets the eye...

Why we chose it

When we asked young visitors to the museum to tell us their favourite stories those written by David Walliams were frequently mentioned and Gangsta Granny was most frequently suggested. Children love Walliams’ outrageous humour and the larger than life characters.

Where it came from

Otherwise known best as a comic actor and a TV presenter on Britain’s Got Talent, Walliams started writing in 2008. Since then he has written 14 novels, four short-story collections, and seven picture books. His books have sold over 25 million copies worldwide. He was awarded an OBE in 2017. He loves and has been hugely influenced by Roald Dahl, and has worked with Quentin Blake, who worked on almost all Roald Dahl’s books.

Where it went next

The book sold over 1.5 million copies in paperback alone, and has been translated into many languages, including French and Russian. Gangsta Granny was adapted by the BBC in 2013 and the Birmingham Stage Company in 2016. Alton Towers launched The World of David Walliams in early 2020, with Gangsta Granny as the main theme.

Associated stories

Some of his most popular books are The Boy in the Dress, Mr Stink, and Billionaire Boy, all of which have been adapted for television. For younger readers, he has written Boogie Bear, The First Hippo on the Moon, and The Slightly Annoying Elephant, all illustrated by Tony Ross.