Der Sandelf (1902)

A charming story. I wonder why I never read it before? Sometimes it is a bit precious, but not so much that it turns to treacle. Having been written in 1902, in England, there are some culturally interesting features: attitudes of the children to servants, the fact that a middle class family has servants, the adult's willingness to let the children roam for the day, not inquiring into their activities unless they make a mess.

Any moralizing is moderate to invisible, and yet, lessons are learned. Lovely. ( )

I really didn't like it at first--in fact, I almost abandoned it. But it's on the reading list for the Boy for this year's literature requirement, so I stuck it out. I'm so glad I did! I loved Nesbit's tone and the kids' adventures were so funny! ( )

Charming and endearing. ( )

why are these children always so hungry and racist ( )

I loved this as a kid. It's one of those books that really stick in your heads. ( )