It's a grim fact that the world isn't as nice as it used to be. People are ruder, more greedy, more selfish and more violent. And even though those hardback retro books with flock covers and embossed titles look nice, they won't help turn back the clock.

Making a tin-can telephone, skimming stones and whittling wood isn't going to bring world peace. In fact, the world is only made more dangerous by people making their own bunsen burners and careering down hills in home made soap-box carts.

Well, here's an alternative book for boys - one that teaches us the joy and pleasure of staying indoors, keeping safe and staying out of trouble.