The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: the Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood is a charming novel for children in fifth through ninth grade. The story about a 19th century governess makes use of satire and wacky humor with a wonderful blend of Jane Austin and Lemony Snicket. Penelope is a fifteen year old who has recently graduated from the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females. She accepts a position to act as governess for three children, only to discover that she has very unusual charges. Apparently, Penelope's employer, Lord Fredrick, found the children in the woods while he was hunting wolves on his estate. The new lady of the estate, Lady Constance, is giddy and completely uninterested in the children. These wolf nurtured children pose a unique set of challenges, but Penelope surges on ahead teaching them manners, literature and language. She is charged with getting the children ready to attend a large Christmas party, as well as teaching them more standard fair. Armed with a solid education and sayings from the esteemed founder of her alma mater she faces each challenge with dignity and logic.
See my complete review here.
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