Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By Jacqueline Harvey, Random House, $16.99.
Now to some engaging reading for youngsters – and adults alike! The sub-title of this book says it all: mischief and mayhem at Winchesterfield-Downsfordvale.
Alice-Miranda is not an average child because she loves school and is delighted to be back. As well, you’ll meet some endearing pooches and many more when the dog show comes to Winchesterfield.
However, there is tension in the village as the entrants primp and preen their prized canines and the committee scrambles to organise the best chudleighs ever.
It’s the start of a new term at school and exhilaration is being felt by many with the announcement of an engagement between Miss Reedy and Mr Plumpton. Of course, the wedding is not far away.
Even the students and teachers are thrown into a spin when a surprise arrival is added to the mix. Meanwhile, Caprice and Millie’s bickering reaches an all-time high and things look set to explode.
Certainly, there is plenty afoot in Winchesterfield, with the village about to host Chudleighs, the country’s most prestigious dog show. The event brings with it a series of bizarre characters. Alice-Miranda will need to act quickly to save the day because strange behaviour could be hiding something more alarming.
This popular series delivers all the familiar well-loved elements, including fast-paced action and ‘strong, resourceful and empathetic female characters’. The difficult issues of puppy farming and stealing pet dogs for profit are discussed in a kind-hearted manner.
