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I Told You So!: The Adventures of William and Thomas
How much trouble can two ten-year-old boys really get into? Meet best friends William and Thomas, who can’t seem to get enough action and adventure. Welcome to Itchygooney where no one is safe from the stunts and pranks that William dreams up. Follow along as the boys get stuck in trees, attacked by killer bees, scare little brothers, and jump off monster-sized ramps. The Adventures of William and Thomas is book one in the ongoing I Told You So series of humorous stories shared in short standalone bursts. If they were any longer you couldn’t handle it!
113 pages, Hardcover
Published June 3, 2023
About the author
Mark Gunning
11 books65 followersMark Gunning is a Canadian children's author, retired elementary school teacher, and professional creator of kid-sized chaos. After 28 years in the classroom, he now spends his days writing humorous adventures that encourage children to laugh, imagine, and discover the joy of reading.
Mark is the author of the award-winning I Told You So! series, featuring the unforgettable William and Thomas, whose spectacularly bad ideas almost never go according to plan. He's also the creator of the Itchygooney Mysteries, a spooky-but-funny middle-grade series inspired by a wild childhood imagination, beginning with The Itchygooney Witch.
When he's not writing, Mark visits schools across Ontario, sharing his love of storytelling and helping students discover that anyone with a little imagination can become a writer. At home in Niagara Falls, Ontario, he's usually hiking the Niagara Gorge, attempting to convince his guitar to cooperate, or being supervised by his two dogs, Chewie and Ozzie.
And if you ever spot a mysterious swirl burned into the grass... you might have just found the Mark of the Itchygooney Witch.
Mark is the author of the award-winning I Told You So! series, featuring the unforgettable William and Thomas, whose spectacularly bad ideas almost never go according to plan. He's also the creator of the Itchygooney Mysteries, a spooky-but-funny middle-grade series inspired by a wild childhood imagination, beginning with The Itchygooney Witch.
When he's not writing, Mark visits schools across Ontario, sharing his love of storytelling and helping students discover that anyone with a little imagination can become a writer. At home in Niagara Falls, Ontario, he's usually hiking the Niagara Gorge, attempting to convince his guitar to cooperate, or being supervised by his two dogs, Chewie and Ozzie.
And if you ever spot a mysterious swirl burned into the grass... you might have just found the Mark of the Itchygooney Witch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 30, 2019
My daughters and I enjoyed this book. It reminded me of Dennis the Menace a little because William sure has some crazy plans and is up to no good many times. The story is broken up into short sections, called "events" which helps to break up the book for readers. Our favorite event was Basement Monster because it had us laughing out loud. Now mind you, it wasn't nice what the two older boys were trying to do to the younger brother, but it was funny how it backfired on the two older boys and sent them screaming! I have to admit that I tried to scare my younger sister a few times when I was little, so I could relate to what the boys were trying to accomplish, but I was glad they got a taste of their own medicine.
This book is sure to entertain kids. It gives good examples of what not to do in childhood, although some parental guidance may be necessary to make sure kids realize that there are consequences to their actions, which I believe kids learn the hard way sometimes. So in any case, it's good to read stories so kids know what not to do!
I have to mention that this book probably will appeal to boys more than girls since my two daughters weren't totally impressed with the book, but they did like the stories and they were laughing during the Basement Monster story. Both of my girls said, "four stars" so that is what we are rating the book.
I downloaded this book when it was available for a free download and I am voluntarily sharing our review for parents to find great book for their kids to read.
Jessica D. Adams, Author
This book is sure to entertain kids. It gives good examples of what not to do in childhood, although some parental guidance may be necessary to make sure kids realize that there are consequences to their actions, which I believe kids learn the hard way sometimes. So in any case, it's good to read stories so kids know what not to do!
I have to mention that this book probably will appeal to boys more than girls since my two daughters weren't totally impressed with the book, but they did like the stories and they were laughing during the Basement Monster story. Both of my girls said, "four stars" so that is what we are rating the book.
I downloaded this book when it was available for a free download and I am voluntarily sharing our review for parents to find great book for their kids to read.
Jessica D. Adams, Author
June 16, 2019
A fun well written book about Thomas and his mischievous best friend William who gets up to lots of crazy pranks. Children will enjoy the silly situations the two boys get up to and will be eager to read on to their next not so carefully thought out cunning plan.
October 29, 2017
I Told You So! The Adventures of William and Thomas, by author and educator Mark Gunning, is a collection of short stories for kids—especially those kids who are prone to landing themselves in hot water every so often.
It follows the (mis)adventures of William and Thomas—two boys who get themselves into all sorts of trouble throughout summer break. It features everything from concocting homemade devices to take down beehives to attempting twenty-foot bicycle jumps over a dozen of their friends.
The stories are told from the perspective of Thomas, who appears to be the more mature and level-headed of the two boys. As he retells the stories, the narrative is presented in a way that gives Thomas a clear voice and distinct personality. His youthful (and sometimes reckless) involvement with William offers plenty of chuckles for readers of all ages. The illustrations throughout (William is never without a plan in the form of a blueprint) are entertaining, as well.
I don't have children myself, so it's hard to assess what age group these stories are intended for. Young children might have trouble discerning some of the do-not-attempt-at-home stunts described from reality, so for that reason, I would recommend this book to older youth audiences.
I would have liked to have seen one overarching theme or story to the whole book, rather than feeling as though each story began anew. I also would have liked the book to have been a bit longer.
Overall, the book is a short and fun read, and it does a great job of developing two very different personas in William and Thomas. I look forward to reading what the author publishes next. Recommended.
It follows the (mis)adventures of William and Thomas—two boys who get themselves into all sorts of trouble throughout summer break. It features everything from concocting homemade devices to take down beehives to attempting twenty-foot bicycle jumps over a dozen of their friends.
The stories are told from the perspective of Thomas, who appears to be the more mature and level-headed of the two boys. As he retells the stories, the narrative is presented in a way that gives Thomas a clear voice and distinct personality. His youthful (and sometimes reckless) involvement with William offers plenty of chuckles for readers of all ages. The illustrations throughout (William is never without a plan in the form of a blueprint) are entertaining, as well.
I don't have children myself, so it's hard to assess what age group these stories are intended for. Young children might have trouble discerning some of the do-not-attempt-at-home stunts described from reality, so for that reason, I would recommend this book to older youth audiences.
I would have liked to have seen one overarching theme or story to the whole book, rather than feeling as though each story began anew. I also would have liked the book to have been a bit longer.
Overall, the book is a short and fun read, and it does a great job of developing two very different personas in William and Thomas. I look forward to reading what the author publishes next. Recommended.
June 28, 2021
The Mischievous Boys
I can’t stop laughing, this book just brought me back to my teens,lol. It is delightful, funny and adventurous. I love the bee story where as usual😉 nothing went as planned. Definitely grab this book.
I can’t stop laughing, this book just brought me back to my teens,lol. It is delightful, funny and adventurous. I love the bee story where as usual😉 nothing went as planned. Definitely grab this book.
June 16, 2019
This selection is a wonderful chapter book that contains six stories about two curious and mischievous friends. William and Thomas are best friends who are constantly getting into trouble. William constantly draws up the plans; he texts Thomas and the adventure begins.
The first adventure is my favorite. William’s glider gets stuck in a tree. Thomas comes over with his baseball to help. Soon the baseball is stuck as well. The two friends take turns climbing the tree, but when William gets halfway up, he is left in a compromising position. Even William’s mother can’t stop laughing at his plight.
Other stories include an attempt to get rid of a bee’s nest, William trying to scare his brother with a fake monster, building a ramp to break a record, a super-hot chili recipe, and using dish soap to create make-believe snow. Each of these has unexpected and hilarious results.
William and Thomas may just become icons to their readers. They embody the characteristics of ingenuity and good-clean-fun. Parents and teachers may have to remind their young readers to be sensitive to a victim’s feelings and not to confuse joking with bullying. Recommended for middle-grade students.
The first adventure is my favorite. William’s glider gets stuck in a tree. Thomas comes over with his baseball to help. Soon the baseball is stuck as well. The two friends take turns climbing the tree, but when William gets halfway up, he is left in a compromising position. Even William’s mother can’t stop laughing at his plight.
Other stories include an attempt to get rid of a bee’s nest, William trying to scare his brother with a fake monster, building a ramp to break a record, a super-hot chili recipe, and using dish soap to create make-believe snow. Each of these has unexpected and hilarious results.
William and Thomas may just become icons to their readers. They embody the characteristics of ingenuity and good-clean-fun. Parents and teachers may have to remind their young readers to be sensitive to a victim’s feelings and not to confuse joking with bullying. Recommended for middle-grade students.
December 13, 2019
I love this series by author Mark Gunning. I have read both of the Willam and Thomas books and enjoyed every moment. They are full of excitement and adventure for the middle-grade youngster and more. You child needs to read no matter his/her age. These books are books that I recommend very highly for them as they will use most of their senses to enjoy. There are maps and instructions to read, sounds/noises they will almost be able to hear, feelings, physical and emotional, smell and taste (I'm sure with boys there will be cookies or something else to eat) so you see, interesting and entertaining. Like all boys, they will get into trouble, but they seem to have a way of getting around it.
April 26, 2019
"I Told You So! The Adventures of William and Thomas" reminds me of raising my own three boys. I could see them on every page. Yes, I was the mother who was called to the kindergarten pre-school in the middle of the day, because my son had decided to climb the steep roof of the cubby house and refused to come down after lunch was over.
This is a delightful read. I recommend it to anyone looking for a quick read and a good laugh.
This is a delightful read. I recommend it to anyone looking for a quick read and a good laugh.
June 23, 2019
This excellent book, with fun illustrations by Kathy Goodwin that really match the tone of the book, is a funny read that had me laughing out loud. Short stories of the adventures of two young boys, it was full of cheekiness, mischief, and I absolutely loved it. I really hope the author produces more of these stories, as they really improved my mood on a tough day. Can't wait to share them with my nieces!
June 22, 2019
Boys shenanigans upto no good
What a laugh out loud, funny entertaining book. The boys are always trying out new things and new inventions. Sadly for them, most of their plans flop and always leave behind angry family and friends. But they are definitely entertaining for others. A good book to pick up when you are having a bad day and need a laugh.
What a laugh out loud, funny entertaining book. The boys are always trying out new things and new inventions. Sadly for them, most of their plans flop and always leave behind angry family and friends. But they are definitely entertaining for others. A good book to pick up when you are having a bad day and need a laugh.
September 18, 2017
Hey folks, this is the first book in my new series for Primary/Junior aged kids. It follows the adventures of two good friends and their not so good ideas. Thomas is the hesitant one and William is the mastermind behind the plans. Overall, kids will love to see what William has planned next!
September 22, 2017
This book is awesome!!! Reading it to my class!
September 24, 2017
As the teacher librarian at my school I highly recommend this book for your students. My students enjoyed hearing the stories and are excited that book number 2 is in the works.
January 8, 2019
Loads of fun!
I enjoyed reading through these stories. They're full of adventure, suspense, danger, laughs... I'm looking forward to book 2!
I enjoyed reading through these stories. They're full of adventure, suspense, danger, laughs... I'm looking forward to book 2!
August 20, 2019
Middle-graders will love the adventures of William and Thomas. Fast-paced silliness and sweet friendship. Can’t miss!
January 26, 2020
so hilarious and cool
March 10, 2020
A Fun read !
I think a lot of these stories are probably true. What do you think? I want to see all the snapshots.
I think a lot of these stories are probably true. What do you think? I want to see all the snapshots.
February 3, 2026
The Adventures of William and Thomas is a fast, funny, and action-packed read that perfectly captures the wild imagination of two ten-year-old boys who are always looking for their next adventure. Set in the unforgettable town of Itchygooney, the story is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, pranks gone wrong, and just enough chaos to keep readers hooked.
William and Thomas are best friends who seem to attract trouble wherever they go—whether they’re stuck in trees, attacked by killer bees, or launching themselves off monster-sized ramps. The short, standalone stories make this book easy to read and hard to put down, especially for younger readers who enjoy humor and nonstop action.
As the first book in the I Told You So series, this story sets the tone perfectly: silly, adventurous, and full of heart. Kids will love the humor, and adults will enjoy the nostalgia of remembering what it was like to push boundaries and learn lessons the hard way. If you’re looking for a fun, quick read that delivers big laughs, this book is definitely worth checking out.
William and Thomas are best friends who seem to attract trouble wherever they go—whether they’re stuck in trees, attacked by killer bees, or launching themselves off monster-sized ramps. The short, standalone stories make this book easy to read and hard to put down, especially for younger readers who enjoy humor and nonstop action.
As the first book in the I Told You So series, this story sets the tone perfectly: silly, adventurous, and full of heart. Kids will love the humor, and adults will enjoy the nostalgia of remembering what it was like to push boundaries and learn lessons the hard way. If you’re looking for a fun, quick read that delivers big laughs, this book is definitely worth checking out.
January 30, 2024
The Adventures of William and Thomas is a children's chapter book filled with adventures, illustrations, text messages and lots of plotting and planning. William and Thomas are always getting into something and there were definitely laugh out loud moments even when they were causing trouble or getting into it. There were references to people and things from the 70's and I definitely could relate.
It was a quick read at just over one-hundred pages and I definitely wanted to see what they would be up to next. They were lucky there weren't more injuries with some of the chaos they created and dangerous activities they participated in. The story ended a little abruptly but I would like to read more of this series. The chapter titles were cute as were the plans that were drawn. The author's interview where he answered questions that were posed gave me a chuckle or two. There was a sneak peek in the back of the book that left me wanting more.
It was a quick read at just over one-hundred pages and I definitely wanted to see what they would be up to next. They were lucky there weren't more injuries with some of the chaos they created and dangerous activities they participated in. The story ended a little abruptly but I would like to read more of this series. The chapter titles were cute as were the plans that were drawn. The author's interview where he answered questions that were posed gave me a chuckle or two. There was a sneak peek in the back of the book that left me wanting more.
June 6, 2021
Amusing and interesting
How much trouble can two 10-yr- old boys get into? I am sure boys (and even girls) will easily relate to William and Thomas. I am almost certain that all girls have been a tomboy at some point in their childhooold. I know I was one and the two boys' (mis)adventures are almost the same adventures we did as children. I found the tree climbing and killer bee incidents really funny. This story will probably appeal more to boys but there is no reason girls won't love it too. Perfect chapter book for 2nd to 5th grade students.
How much trouble can two 10-yr- old boys get into? I am sure boys (and even girls) will easily relate to William and Thomas. I am almost certain that all girls have been a tomboy at some point in their childhooold. I know I was one and the two boys' (mis)adventures are almost the same adventures we did as children. I found the tree climbing and killer bee incidents really funny. This story will probably appeal more to boys but there is no reason girls won't love it too. Perfect chapter book for 2nd to 5th grade students.
July 29, 2021
Madcap adventures of hilarity
After reading the second book of this 4 book series my kid wanted to read the first book and he wasn't disappointed. Although the books have some hilarious illustrations, these are more short stories than a picture book, so the target age is more the 8 to 14 group. These books follow the adventures of two friends in the town Ichygooney and they are never without numerous plans to crack you up. Plan A - read this book, Plan B - laugh, laugh, laugh, Plan C - read again.
After reading the second book of this 4 book series my kid wanted to read the first book and he wasn't disappointed. Although the books have some hilarious illustrations, these are more short stories than a picture book, so the target age is more the 8 to 14 group. These books follow the adventures of two friends in the town Ichygooney and they are never without numerous plans to crack you up. Plan A - read this book, Plan B - laugh, laugh, laugh, Plan C - read again.
March 7, 2024
10 year old boys can be a chore to raise. They are not a child and not yet a teen. They want to be both. They are daring and willing to try just about anything. If you can read this book with a 10 year old and listen to the comments. I don't have a 10 year old but my imagination ran wild while I read this. I could just picture them in the work shop coming up with some new adventure to try. A delightful read. Highly recommend it to adults. You might learn how boys think. Boys of any age should get a kick out of some of the dumb stunts they attempt.
March 17, 2021
Adventurous boys with time on their hands have always managed to fall out of trees, off the roof, or get chased by dogs but Matthew and William take the cake. By their own account they aren’t bad boys looking for trouble, they just have bad luck. William may not have an ACME account but he does draw diagrams of his schemes and has access to his father’s tool shed. And they own cellphones, tablets and laptops.
May 29, 2021
A very relatable book!
I really enjoyed reading the story behind the book. As a parent of a 10year old, sometimes I feel like what he is doing or how is reacting is abnormal but I was happy to find a story that describes 10years old boys who are always in trouble. The book can teach children to be mindful of their actions and to take responsibilities when they do awful things. It is both fun and interesting to read. Check it out!
I really enjoyed reading the story behind the book. As a parent of a 10year old, sometimes I feel like what he is doing or how is reacting is abnormal but I was happy to find a story that describes 10years old boys who are always in trouble. The book can teach children to be mindful of their actions and to take responsibilities when they do awful things. It is both fun and interesting to read. Check it out!
July 24, 2023
boys will love this 😅
Kids who loved Captain underpants and Diary of a Wimpy Kid will love this too. The antics are a little too wild and dangerous for my taste, but I would trust my child to read this and not be as naughty 😄. Very hilarious and fun. But please please please teach kids to call for help before taking photos when their friend is stuck hanging 20 feet from the ground 😂
Kids who loved Captain underpants and Diary of a Wimpy Kid will love this too. The antics are a little too wild and dangerous for my taste, but I would trust my child to read this and not be as naughty 😄. Very hilarious and fun. But please please please teach kids to call for help before taking photos when their friend is stuck hanging 20 feet from the ground 😂
August 7, 2021
So people you just don't want as friends, but they are fun to be with
This book is humorous in a dark manner. My first thought was of Beaves and Butthead. These boys aren’t bad, but their creativity and imagination get them in trouble.
I enjoyed this book. I would recommend parental supervision. There are a few things that could be dangerous if tried at home.
This book is humorous in a dark manner. My first thought was of Beaves and Butthead. These boys aren’t bad, but their creativity and imagination get them in trouble.
I enjoyed this book. I would recommend parental supervision. There are a few things that could be dangerous if tried at home.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2023
An Entertaining Read!
There’s something about a dynamic duo that is persistent to do ridiculously entertaining acts for absolutely no reason other than to outdo the last one. With the gusto of 90s kid humour and quick-witted style reminiscent of Diary of a Wimpy kid, it seems Mark Gunning had found a niche. I think 6-10 year-olds will thoroughly enjoy this book!
There’s something about a dynamic duo that is persistent to do ridiculously entertaining acts for absolutely no reason other than to outdo the last one. With the gusto of 90s kid humour and quick-witted style reminiscent of Diary of a Wimpy kid, it seems Mark Gunning had found a niche. I think 6-10 year-olds will thoroughly enjoy this book!
September 3, 2023
working well for my students!
This book features six mischievous mishaps that best friends William and Thomas have gotten into together. Children will enjoy the relatable and humorous characters crafted in the stories. I decided to use this series for my students who struggle with reading. They love the stories so far and are motivated to read! Highly recommend this series!
This book features six mischievous mishaps that best friends William and Thomas have gotten into together. Children will enjoy the relatable and humorous characters crafted in the stories. I decided to use this series for my students who struggle with reading. They love the stories so far and are motivated to read! Highly recommend this series!
October 12, 2023
William and Thomas
Two best friends who get into mischief and different adventures. Children will like this book. There are funny drawings and messages. It is a book that will make them laugh but hopefully they won't learn to behave the same as the boys. Things don't go as they planned.
Two best friends who get into mischief and different adventures. Children will like this book. There are funny drawings and messages. It is a book that will make them laugh but hopefully they won't learn to behave the same as the boys. Things don't go as they planned.
November 28, 2023
Troubled-Tens
I was warned before I started the book. William and Thomas got into a lot of trouble and it started with a glider and a baseball and it was all fun from there. The toilet plunger and the bee had me giggling all the way.
Grandmother Grunt and Harry were the best things that the two boys could have as friends.
Enjoyable, adventurous book for children.
I was warned before I started the book. William and Thomas got into a lot of trouble and it started with a glider and a baseball and it was all fun from there. The toilet plunger and the bee had me giggling all the way.
Grandmother Grunt and Harry were the best things that the two boys could have as friends.
Enjoyable, adventurous book for children.
January 6, 2024
Pranks and fun
These two boys are full of plans. William is the one that comes up with a prank and an elaborate plan. Thomas goes along with it, but over and over William really pays for it. From getting over 30 bee stings to falling in dog poo, he suffers! Then he’s got a new plan! It’s a cute book and kids will love it.
These two boys are full of plans. William is the one that comes up with a prank and an elaborate plan. Thomas goes along with it, but over and over William really pays for it. From getting over 30 bee stings to falling in dog poo, he suffers! Then he’s got a new plan! It’s a cute book and kids will love it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews