Book Review: The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place Book II

The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book II: The Hidden Gallery is a children’s book written by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Jon Klassen. This sequel continues a charming story about a 19th century governess and her unusual charges. The series makes use of satire and madcap humor with a delightful blend of Jane Austin and Lemony Snicket. AS with the first installment of the series, The Mysterious Howling, I encourage readers of all ages to enjoy the books, I particularly recommend it for family reading.

The Hidden Gallery begins shortly after the end of The Mysterious Howling. Ashton Place is still in a shambles, the workmen taking much more time in their repairs than Lady Constance would like. When Penelope receives a letter from her former headmistress requesting that they meet in London, somehow her request to bring the children to London for the meeting triggers a trip for the entire household. Portents of danger, new friends and deeper mysteries keep you turning the pages. My only complaint with The Hidden Gallery is that more questions were raised and very little was resolved. I enjoyed the story and new characters, as well as the new developments with the characters that had appeared in the first book. I am beyond eager to get my hands on the third book in the series, The Unseen Quest, which is not scheduled for release until February 2012.

No comments: