Spud is the first novel by South African Author, actor and playwright John van de Ruit.

Set in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Spud is the dairy of a 13 year old South African boy; John Howard Milton (nicknamed ‘Spud’ because his ‘ahem’ haven’t yet dropped). The book follows his zany family and his life as he starts out at a prestigious private boarding school.

His dormitory, nicknamed the crazy eight consists of Robert Black – ‘Rambo’, the (self-appointed) leader of the Crazy Eight. Henry Barker – ‘Gecko’ – A pale boy who is incessantly falling ill. Vern Blackadder – ‘Rain Man’ – Spud’s deranged cubicle mate. Fatty - known for his excessive flatulence. Simon – jock and cricket star. Charlie Hooper – ‘Mad Dog’ – a fierce and ruthless thug-like boy, named because of his hunting habits and Alan Greenstein -’Boggo’ – a perverted boy who has a liking for porn and named because he is always going to the lavatories (the bogs) for unmentionable reasons.

More importantly the book takes what we all love and hate about high school and boarding and narrates the process is the most hysterical ways. I found myself laughing out loud in public as people walked by giving me the sideways glance.  The book is so easy to read, anybody can read it, you, your parents, and your grandparents. It will have you all laughing. It has an almost addictive feeling, you want to know what happens next, and the book leaves you panting for more.

The book will throw you through the roller coaster that is boarding school, make you laugh, cry, hope and see the world through thirteen year old eyes again. A must BUY – never mind read.

The book is already the highest selling book of all time in South Africa and was released late in 2007 in the states. A movie has also been put into production and is scheduled for a 2010 release.