The Penderwicks

(Paperback)

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Description

A deliciously nostalgic and hilariously charming story of four sisters and their adventures/mishaps on holiday. 'A charmer of a book, and a page-turning read' - The Independent The Penderwicks- four sisters, as different as chalk from cheese, yet as close as can be. The eldest, Rosalind, is responsible and practical; Skye, stubborn and feisty; dreamy, artistic, budding novelist, Jane; and shy little Batty, who doesn't go anywhere without her butterfly wings. And not forgetting Hound, their large lumbering lovable dog. The four girls and their absent-minded father head off for their summer holidays, but instead of the cosy tumbledown cottage they expect, they find themselves on a huge estate called Arundel, with magnificent gardens ripe for exploring. It isn't long before they become embroiled in all sorts of scrapes with new-found friend, Jeffrey - but his mother, the icy-hearted Mrs Tifton, must be avoided at all costs. Chaotic adventures ensue, and it soon becomes a summer the sisters will never forget...

Reviews

A gentle book, with a philosophy of kindness to others and a message that children should confide their troubles to adults, who should always listen * The Sunday Times *
Despite a few mishaps, the children become fast friends and partners in the sorts of lively plots and pastoral pastimes we don't read much about these days. Their adventures and near-disasters, innocent crushes, escaped animals, owning-up and growing up (and yes, changes of heart) are satisfying and not-too-sweet * Kirkus Reviews *
Birdsall follows in the footsteps of Elizabeth Enright, Edward Eager, and Noel Streatfeild, updating the family story yet keeping all the old-fashioned charm * Booklist *
Nicely old-fashioned . . . what makes it so engaging are Birdsall's light humorous style and the varied, vivid characters. Great fun and a cosy, comforting read * Books for Keeps *

Author Bio

Jeanne Birdsall lives in Massachusetts, USA, with her husband, three cats, and a dog called Cagney. The Penderwicks was her first novel, and won the National Book Award for Young People's Literature. You can find out more about Jeanne (and her animal friends) at her website- www.jeannebirdsall.com.