The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: The Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood. Listening Library, 2010. (Narrated by Katherine Kellgren)Audience: Grades 5 and up
My Rating: 5* of 5
Summary: Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary trio of children. Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. Penelope embraces the challenge of her new position, but finds that mysteries abound at Ashton Place.
Comments: "All books are judged by their cover until they are read," according to Agatha Swanburne, headmistress of Penelope Lumley's former boarding school. This, along with many more pithy sayings by Swanburne, are the heart of what makes The Mysterious Howling a delightfully charming read (perfectly voiced by Kellgren). Part Lemony Snicket and part Mary Poppins, Wood has created a darling backdrop (though not saccharine) for her vivid characters to play out their often surprising parts. As this first installment in the series winds down, the mystery is just beginning to surface, making the wait for another trip to Ashton Place seem like an eternity. But as Agatha Swanburne says, "One can board one's train only after it arrives at the station; until then, enjoy your newspaper."
Comments: "All books are judged by their cover until they are read," according to Agatha Swanburne, headmistress of Penelope Lumley's former boarding school. This, along with many more pithy sayings by Swanburne, are the heart of what makes The Mysterious Howling a delightfully charming read (perfectly voiced by Kellgren). Part Lemony Snicket and part Mary Poppins, Wood has created a darling backdrop (though not saccharine) for her vivid characters to play out their often surprising parts. As this first installment in the series winds down, the mystery is just beginning to surface, making the wait for another trip to Ashton Place seem like an eternity. But as Agatha Swanburne says, "One can board one's train only after it arrives at the station; until then, enjoy your newspaper."
Awards:
Read-alikes: Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket
