thelibraryofalexandra's review against another edition
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
laurenrebecca8's review against another edition
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
nancidrum's review against another edition
5.0
Great little story about an Australian family. Similarities to Sound of Music with strict "Captain" father and kind second wife who loves the children. This was rated in top 10 books Australians suggested non-Aussies should read. Very sweet, funny, and tender.
sharnibee's review against another edition
4.0
What a gorgeous story. I'm glad I didn't resist my urge to buy this edition at the bookshop the other day...
I think I must have seen the miniseries when I was quite small because I remembered the ending (although absolutely nothing else).
I think I must have seen the miniseries when I was quite small because I remembered the ending (although absolutely nothing else).
katos's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
mamatoca's review against another edition
emotional
funny
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.5
The unexpected ending is what moved this to a 3.5 for me. I don't know how I avoided spoilers beforehand, but I am glad I did. The ending elevates it from merely a lighthearted children's book, to something with a little more "teeth" that lasts beyond childhood.
barryhaworth's review against another edition
4.0
I first read this one as a set book when I was at school (can't remember exactly when) and recently dug it out to reread. At the time I first read it I felt that the style of writing and the personalities of the children reminded me very strongly of the works of Edith Nesbit, and such books as "The Story of the Treasure Seekers" or "The Phoenix and the Carpet". Revisiting after many years I found it just as enjoyable as I remembered, and the Nesbit comparison still holds. This time around I think I will check out the sequels - I never did find out what happened next.
booksofthepast's review against another edition
5.0
This gorgeous little story broke my heart. I adore this story so much. I think I will read this book every year.
mousebloom's review against another edition
emotional
sad
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0