Now that I finally got around to reading this book, I can’t stop raving about it! It’s been out since 2005 (Lisa’s already blogged about its trequal) and it’s well-received to boot, so I don’t want to rehash old territory. To summarize:
- it’s refreshingly charming for a story about four (non-English) sisters, their absentminded but loving father, and the lonely boy they meet on holiday, I mean, vacation, at Arundel Cottage out in the Berkshires of MA
- things get interesting as they explore and butt heads with brittle Mrs. Tifton, the owner of Arundel Estate
- the story is so enchanting you’d swear magic was involved, but it’s just old-fashioned summer fun at its best
- to quote Jane, the most imaginative Penderwick sister, it’s about heart and truth and adventue
But what gives me the most pleasure about this book is, because I can’t actually go on vacation, reading The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall is the next best thing. The Penderwicks are marvelous company and Birdsall effortlessly slides details into the dialogue and descriptions without hampering the pace of the story, so I really do feel like I’m present and part of the gang. Unfortunately, like any good vacation, it’s over too quickly. Next travel destination, Gardam Street!
