De Zoon van Dik Trom by Cornelis Johannes Kieviet

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De Zoon van Dik Trom by Cornelis Johannes Kieviet

(5 User reviews) 1055

By Mark Roberts Posted on Mar 30, 2026

In Category - Ideas & Debate

Authors: Kieviet, Cornelis Johannes, 1858-1931 Published By : Kieviet, Cornelis Johannes, 1858-1931

Book Language: Dutch

Hey, have you ever wondered what happens to a legendary troublemaker when he grows up? That's exactly what we get in 'De Zoon van Dik Trom' (The Son of Dik Trom). Forget the quiet, studious child—this book introduces us to Dik Trom Jr., a boy who seems genetically programmed to follow in his famous father's chaotic footsteps. The big question isn't just whether he'll get into scrapes (he will), but whether he can carve out his own identity in a village that already knows exactly who he's supposed to be. It's a hilarious and surprisingly touching look at legacy, expectation, and the universal struggle of a kid trying to be his own person, even if that person is just as likely to accidentally flood the town square. If you love classic, wholesome mischief with a big heart, this forgotten sequel is a real treat.

File: De Zoon van Dik Trom by Cornelis Johannes Kieviet

First published in 1909, De Zoon van Dik Trom is the direct sequel to the beloved Dutch children's classic Uit het Leven van Dik Trom. Written by schoolmaster Cornelis Johannes Kieviet, it picks up the story in the same quaint village, but a generation later.

The Story

The book introduces us to Dik Trom's son, who is, perhaps unsurprisingly, also named Dik Trom. From the very beginning, young Dik shows every sign of inheriting his father's legendary talent for well-meaning mischief and getting into absurd situations. The plot follows his adventures as he navigates school, friendships, and village life. He's constantly measured against the larger-than-life stories of his father's youth, creating a funny and sometimes poignant pressure. The story is less about one big conflict and more a series of charming, episodic misadventures—think a boy accidentally becoming a local hero for all the wrong reasons, or his schemes to help a friend backfiring in the most spectacularly messy way. Through it all, we see a boy with a golden heart, even if his methods are pure chaos.

Why You Should Read It

There's a wonderful warmth to this book that modern stories often lack. Kieviet writes with genuine affection for his characters and their small-town world. The humor is gentle and situational, arising from the gap between Dik Jr.'s good intentions and the disastrous results. What really got me, though, was the theme of legacy. It's not just a slapstick comedy; it's about a boy living in the shadow of a local legend, trying to figure out if he's just a copy or his own person. That's a feeling anyone with a famous family member, or even just big expectations to live up to, can understand. The father-son dynamic is also beautifully handled, full of pride, exasperation, and deep, unspoken love.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect read for anyone who enjoys classic, heartwarming children's literature like Tom Sawyer or Just William. It's ideal for parents looking to share a funny, wholesome story with their kids, or for adults feeling nostalgic for a simpler, if messier, time. The episodic chapters make it great for reading aloud. Be aware that the language and some references are of its time (early 1900s), so it might feel a bit old-fashioned, but that's part of its charm. If you want a book that will make you laugh and leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling, Dik Trom Jr. is your boy.