High-spirited, slightly spoiled Bonnie Green is full of excitement at the prospect of her cousin Sylvia's arrival. Even though Bonnie's parents are about to leave on a long journey and Bonnie and Sylvia will be left in the care of a new governess who looks strict and cold, Bonnie knows that she and Sylvia will become close friends. The reality is much different than the two girls could possibly have expected, though: as soon as Bonnie's parents are away, the erstwhile governess takes control of the manor, turning away all but the worst of the servants, rooting through the papers in the library, and sending Bonnie and Sylvia off to a cruel orphan school that is no better than a workhouse. With the help of a goose boy who lives in a cave on the grounds of Willoughby Chase and a few loyal servants, Bonnie and Sylvia must find a way to escape. Even if they do, where will they go? What has become of Bonnie's parents -- have they fallen victims to foul play? Can anyone bring order back to Willoughby Chase?
This is a great, old-fashioned read with lots of adventure. I enjoyed it tremendously, and can't believe I waited so long to read it!
(Reviewed from my personally purchased copy.)
I really need to read this book!
ReplyDeleteI also didn't read this until I was an adult, and wish I'd read it as a child. If you like audiobooks, Aiken's daughter reads the audiobook, and it is excellent.
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