#Review: The Silly Billy Series

Slam Dunk by Vibha Batra
The Impossible Pet by Jane De Suza
Leaf People by Chatura Rao

These three Silly Billy books—Slam Dunk!, The Impossible Pet, and Leaf People—work well as a bundle because they capture exactly what early readers enjoy most: humour, chaos, curiosity, and just enough emotional grounding to make the story stick.

Slam Dunk! scores (pun fully intended) with its energetic pacing and inclusive representation. Faizya and Kalpesh’s friendship and their brush with failure feel relatable without becoming preachy. The sports backdrop is used smartly—as a setting for resilience rather than just competition. That said, the conflict resolves a little too neatly, which may feel rushed for readers who like a bit more emotional build-up.

The Impossible Pet is pure mischievous fun. Tarun’s desperation for a pet spirals into increasingly absurd attempts, and the humour lands well for its target audience. The writing is light and accessible, though the narrative leans more on situations than character depth. It’s entertaining, but not particularly surprising.

Leaf People stands out for its quieter tone. The mystery element, sibling dynamic, and nature-infused imagination give it a slightly reflective edge. The idea is charming, though the mystery itself could have been explored with more complexity.

Overall, these books are age-appropriate, visually engaging, and ideal for independent readers just gaining confidence. They may not linger long after the last page, but they do their job well—making reading feel enjoyable rather than obligatory.