Here is a creative, whimsical novel in the fine British tradition of Roald Dahl. Three aunts live on a secret island in the Atlantic. They are charged with maintaining the safety and health of many strange and wonderful sea creatures, including mermaids, selkies, the stoorworm, and the giant kraken. But the aunts are growing older and need some help with their caretaking duties. They decide to kidnap some children and bring them to the island. Minette and Fabio are unwanted children who love working with the aunts. Lambert Sprott, on the other hand, is a spoiled brat who causes nothing but trouble. When Lambert's greedy father tracks Lambert down, he also threatens the lives of the beautiful creatures. He captures most of the island's inhabitants, intent on making money off of them back in England. Of course, the forces of good prevail in the end. Packed with witticisms and dry humor, children will laugh out loud at the wacky world Ibbotson has conjured up. 2000, Dutton Children's Books, $15.99. Ages 8 to 12.