susanvoss18

By and large, this tale is an easy read with clever little twists, providing a wholesome story. To me, it almost struck as a remembrance of simpler times with fewer worries (if there ever was such a time). There’s no swearing, not violence, no sex, no smoking, no drinking, etc. I know – so not me. But, nevertheless, I enjoyed this little jaunt down tame Boys’ Boarding School Lane. I especially enjoyed some of the crazy exclamations the boys had – ‘Petrified Paintpots!’, ‘Cristalized Cheesecakes’, and ‘Fossilized Fishhooks!’. Yes, Anthony Buckeridge had me laughing out loud with his creativeness.

While there are few females even mentioned, and only 1 female character, they are treated respectfully. Still, a female reader might find less connection to this story than male readers.

Narration: Simon Vance is always a treat. I especially enjoyed his blustering voice for Merridew, the occasionally whining school boy, and all the funny exclamations used throughout the story.