A Review By Frances Smith

I could not put this book down.  A gripping Dickensian romp, with a cast full of characters such as, among many others, “Scrope” (obviously not very nice!) “Nick Tick” the clockmaker – very kind;“Smidge”- another nasty piece of work, and “Flora and Dora”, two entertaining dancing fairies.

 Mouse has always lived with Ma and Big Isaac at Roseberry Farm.  Life is hard but enjoyable and although Ma often fosters children, Mouse knows that deep down he is her favourite.  He is not sure that she really is his mother, but he loves her and Isaac, and knows that they love him.  He is wrenched suddenly from this happy security and sent by the mysterious Mr Button to Murkstone Hall, a boarding School for boys run by the unhappy and cruel Bulloughby.  Here Mouse manages to make some friends and learns to cope with all sorts of difficulties.

 The story is written in short chapters, with Mouse’s tale running alongside those of his unknown Uncle, “Old Epsilon”, the story behind the founding of the dreadful school and the machinations of the clever Mr Button.  It owes much to both “Great Expectations” and “Oliver Twist”, but is no worse for that and I would recommend it as a wonderful Christmas gift for any child who enjoys reading from age 8 to 15 (and also to grown ups!).

This book is due to be published on 1st October. You can order it in advance.