Stuff Happens: Dale

Stuff Happens is an important series for boys about everyday challenges. Created by Susannah McFarlane, the series editor, it includes stories by authors Tony Wilson, Andrew Daddo, Philip Gwynne, Will Kostakis, Oliver Phommavanh, Scot Gardner, Pat Flynn, Alex McDiarmid, Justin D'Ath, Adrian Beck, James Valentine, and James Roy.

Each book features a different character and follows them as they overcome a particular everyday challenge. Aimed at boys aged between 7 and 11, the Stuff Happens series explores those everyday struggles in life that boys can sometimes be reluctant to express—quarrels with mates, a bad day at school, fear of disappointing mum and dad, rejection, and not fitting in. Stuff Happens. Real-life stories for boys. Suitable for beginner and newly confident readers. Stuff happens sometimes. Everyday stuff. At school, at home, with sport, with mates.

For Dale, it happened during a school play. Dale is a story about an odd but likeable redhead who decides to take revenge on Dan, the coolest kid in school. Dale intends to embarrass Dan during the finale of their school play, but as the big moment approaches, Dale has second thoughts.

But is he too late to stop the plan he's put in place?