*Shortlisted

Review by Krishan, Claremont High School, Harrow, Middlesex
I found the time period of the book (1959) fascinating as despite World War II ending in 1945 the author depicts London as well – constructed which I feel is unusual, if a great war had taken place just 14 years before the events in the book. I found Albie, one the heroines, the most interesting as when we she first meets the main character, Caro, in the storyline she remains reserved and makes peculiar, shy remarks but as she becomes more acquainted to Caro, we come to know of Albie’s impish side; ready to cover and help Caro, no matter the cost! Apart from wanting to know what else happens as a result of a character reunion in the book, I would also like to know more about how quickly Britain recovered from the Blitz and how much it cost.

This book is overflowing with good vocabulary and general facts that can be applied to subjects at school. Some examples of some new words I found are ignoramus, tureen, attire, deplorable, façade and elusive.

This fiction book has a bit of everything: mystery, adventure, history, humor, crime. Despite it being a fiction book, it includes some facts throughout the book, this makes the story relatable for the reader. The plot remains engaging throughout leaving the reader in suspense at the end of each chapter.

Review by Aryan, Marriotts School, Stevenage
I enjoyed reading the book it was simply amazing.

Great Aunt Mary (AKA GAM) was an interesting character to me because she that mysteriousness about her and she seemed like villain when she’s not one.

I never knew that children were returned before the bombs until I read this book.

The book was interesting because the scars of the WWII had never healed it caused large splits in the family. I didn’t know much about this time before I read the book.

The plot was a twisty type, and this helped set the theme of mystery.

I would recommend the book for people who like mysterious stories.

Review by Annabelle, St Mary’s RC High School Hereford
I think this book was excellent. I really enjoyed the plot, though it was a bit predictable. My favourite character was His Nibs, the rabbit. He was always there for Caro, and he sounded so cute !!! if I’m honest I think he stole the show a bit. I absolutely despised Emerald; I would like to say I thought she wasn’t very nice from the start. Something I especially liked was the author wrote the imagery specifically about the heath. My favourite scene was where Horace, Victor, Caro, and Albie made the gym all together. Mrs and Mr Dockitt were also extremely likable characters, it made me laugh when it said she always gets her way with her husband. Overall, the book was very good, it was entertaining and very sweet. The writing was very clear and descriptive. It showed some of the side effects of WW2. I would definitely recommend this to my friends.