Jess and the River Kids

The story is set in the Australian town of Glencarra, one hot summer during World War II. Jess befriends two boys who live on a houseboat and are temporarily cared for by Lizzie, an elderly English lady, who is deaf. There are two threads to the story, the adventures that Jess shares with the boys and the tales that Lizzie tells of her childhood in Northumberland and her early life in Australia. The two are linked by the children's dramatic rescue of Lizzie from a burning houseboat. There are also the mystery of a theft to be solved, a suspicious 'swagman' to be dealt with, the town ruffians to be put in their place and the boys to be reunited with their parents. A fairly long read which is given depth in the relationship that develops between Lizzie and Jess. There are hints of the Australian setting, forty years ago. It is, however, a story to be read anywhere. A bit long winded, but enthusiasts of ten to twelve gave high praise. 'It's not that funny but it isn't that serious, the kind of middle writing I like.' Deserves a place in the bookshop and library.