Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Book Review- The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place, The Mysterious Howling

By Maryrose Wood
Published by Harper Collins Childrens
Released March 1st, 2010
Source- The Publisher
5 stars- I really enjoyed this book

Of especially naughty children, it is sometimes said: "They must have been raised by wolves."

The Incorrigible children actually were.

Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children. Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners in time for the holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische? (quoted from Ms Wood's site)

The Incorrigible's is a delightful, fun, brilliant read. With it's early 19th century historical setting, a narration that is both modern and fitting for the time period, and wonderful illustrations, made for a book I thoroughly enjoyed.

The story follows that of Miss Penelope Lumley, who's a 15 yr old graduate from the Swanburne Academy. She finds herself the governess at the Ashton Place and in charge of three children, whom Lord Ashton claimed he found and were raised by wolves in the property's vast forest. I really liked Miss Lumley's character. She didn't put up with much, and completely stood up for the children. She was more their guardian than the some what spoiled and clueless (when it comes to kids), Lady Constance.

I fell in the love with the Incorrigible Children almost as fast as Miss Lumley does. Penelope tries her best to teach the children manners, to speak both English and Latin, and gives them a basic education. Her biggest challenge is teaching them to be children, and not wolves. There's a mystery to the story, as Lord Ashton hasn't been honest with his colleagues about the children, and something is hidden within the walls of Ashton Place.

I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series. There's so much left to be uncovered and I can't wait to learn what Maryrose Wood has in store for the children and Miss Penelope Lumley. I highly recommend The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place. I think it will make for both a wonderful read out loud, as well as a wonderful book for older grade school and even middle school children to read.

Be sure to visit Maryrose Wood's site here http://tinyurl.com/2e6gqdh to learn more about the Incorrigible Children and watch the book's trailer here http://tinyurl.com/yce7drd
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~