Beryl Netherclift (1902–1986)

Okay, as a kid I loved loved loved this book, which was then called The Snowstorm (much less spoilery). I recently reread it and was deeply disappointed to see the lack of magic. The plot hinges on three children (ages 11-12) lobbying to clean and redecorate a large house belonging to their rich but cash-poor aunt. Huh? And the adverbs! Holy mackerel, he snickered. The author seems to have written for a perceived audience of pre-teen Antiques Roadshow fanbois. It is starting to dawn on me that if they'd had Antiques Roadshow in my youth I would have enjoyed it. Anyway, if you read this as a kid and have fond memories of the spookiness, by all means live in your memories and do not re-read.… (mehr)