Zeze, the second youngest son of a poor family living in Rio de Janeiro, is a mischievous little so-and-so. He loves nothing more than playing tricks at the expense of others, often causing chaos for those around him. He’s impulsive, a cheeky pain in the arse and as a result, the other kids don’t get along so well with him. His parents and older siblings are working so hard to put food on the table that his misdeeds often result in corporal punishment. His young life changes though when his family move and he finally makes a real friend. 
We follow him learning to love and be loved back, and grieve over the loss of something so vital to his being. Originally published in 1968, this book gives us an insight into the poorer parts of life in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We learn to love, accept, change, grieve and grow.
This is the first book of four that follow Zeze’s life. I’d be happy to read more, but I can’t say I’m in a huge hurry. I enjoyed his adventures, the books are definitely aimed at children but that doesn’t detract from the experience at all.
As far as I can tell the translation is very well done. The prose flowed well and didn’t feel clunky in any way or shape.