- siblings brainstorm and carry out various wild ideas to make money, as they’ve been very poor since Mother died and Father’s business failed
- many funny moments
- language: x4 shut up, x4 stupid, x1 injuns, “make an ass of himself”
- convo: mentions murder by hanging (theoretically); a scene surrounding a divining rod*; kids pretend to see a witch; kids “get married” in play; alcoholic drinks mentioned; a minister is depicted negatively; some publishers include short bios on Nesbit, which often celebrate her rebellion against feminine things as well as her role in socialism
Type: chapter book
Ages: 8+ (reader), 6+ (listener)
Author: E. Nesbit
*For specifics on the divining rod in chapter 14: the siblings do gloomy chants, pray to an idol to lead them with the rod, and eventually it twists in the girl’s hand “like a live thing that seeks to be free.” I think it would be pretty clear to most readers that she is just wiggling it, as they tell a servant it’s just a game, but it’s definitely something parents should know about.
Their ideas for making money will greatly entertain young readers–many end badly, but they’re always sorry for problems they cause with all their endeavors. Their wit, innocence, and imagination will carry readers to the end with smiles on their faces. What better way to finish than with a wonderful Christmas party?
If you can work with the content above, your family might enjoy reading this one. My very favorite Nesbit book, however, is The Railway Children (see that review here)–you’ll always find me recommending it. Happy reading!