the incorrigible children of ashton place: the mysterious howling

At this juncture, I do not think it is possible to overstate my love of middle grade books. I have read so many marvelous stories in the past few months that I am convinced that I a) have been missing out for a long time, and b) am going to find something wonderful just around the next corner.


Of course, I know a couple of things about myself. I like clever books, clever people, clever in general. And I like an omniscient narrator for children’s books (when done well – see Narnia for example), as well as a historical setting. AND… I like a mystery with spunky characters, slightly improbable events, and a sense of humor. I probably don’t need to say it at this point, but The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: The Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood is an impeccable example of all of these. And so I loved it.


Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children: Alexander, age ten or thereabouts, keeps his siblings in line with gentle nips; Cassiopeia, perhaps four or five, has a bark that is (usually) worse than her bite; and Beowulf, age somewhere-in-the-middle, is alarmingly adept at chasing squirrels.

Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. Only fifteen years old and a recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope embraces the challenge of her new position. Though she is eager to instruct the children in Latin verbs and the proper use of globes, first she must help them overcome their canine tendencies.

But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these three wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the vast forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners and socially useful phrases in time for Lady Constance's holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische?


The Mysterious Howling starts as many good adventures do: with a journey to a place and people unknown, but with hope that it will all turn out right. Penelope Lumley is a very young graduate of a school for governesses, sent to make her way in the world for the first time. What she doesn’t know is that she is walking into mystery and will be handed an impossible task.


And then there are the children – the Incorrigibles. They are funny, wild, and kind at heart, as well as too clever by a half. As you can imagine, they get into all manner of trouble, and only Ms. Lumley’s resourcefulness keeps them from utter destruction. Well, mostly. Introduce a squirrel, and all is lost.


This book resides somewhere in a land beyond endearing (is there a word for that place? maybe… idyllic?). It’s humorous, ridiculous, sweet, mysterious and altogether FUN. I couldn’t keep from smiling while reading, and I dare you to keep from smiling yourself. OH, and the illustrations! Jon Klassen, author of award-winning picture book I Want My Hat Back, did them. They (and the cover art) are utterly charming, and that is that.


Recommended for: ages 8-12, plus all of their attendant adults (and especially those who are fond of reading aloud), fans of Lemony Snicket, The Mysterious Benedict Society and Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, and anyone who likes books with a generous helping of humor and adventure on the side.

7 comments:

Tales of Whimsy said...

I adore this one. The audio is totally precious. I will definitely be listening to it with Baby Whimsy again some day.

I'm itching to get my hands on the 2nd audio.

Natasha said...

What a great review. I'd love to read this. I'm going to check it out. Thanks:D

danya said...

I really enjoyed this one too! The old-fashioned, tongue-in-cheek humour is just perfect :)

Jaima said...

I'll have to give this one a try. It has tempted me from the library bookshelves, but until now I have resisted. I do enjoy a well-done omniscient narrative. Sometimes I think they are a dying breed-- everything seems to be first person or third person limited. Great perspectives both, but sometimes I just want a wry, external voice commenting about everything and everyone.

Cecelia said...

Juju: You and me both! I can't wait to check out the next two in the series.

Danya: You've hit the nail on the head - I love the old-fashioned humor & tone!

Jaima: That's just why you should read it! It's wry and perfect. Jokes for adults AND kids. You know?

April (BooksandWine) said...

So, this comment is SUPER late and this tab has been opened for days, I swear. Apologies for that.

But okay, I am kind of in love with your review. It's really lovely to see when other people also love The Incorrigibles. I mean, how adorable are the children and the fact that they call Miss Penelope Lumley 'Lumawoo'. Sigh. Love love love these books and this series. AND I had no idea the I Want My Hat Back author did the illustrations. I will have to investigate that book as well.

Cecelia said...

April: I absolutely loved the 'Lumawoo' name, too! Too cute. Definitely check out Klassen's other illustrations - they are so whimsical and FUNNY! I think it's something in the eyes.

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