Synopsis (Credit: Inside flap)

Gladys Babbington Morton is unhappy. Her first term at St. Drunston's School is not without its problems. After opne or two minor explosions, there is an unpleasant surprise for Mr. Bradshaw on the tennis courts. A flurry of staff unrest ensues, and Gladys is enrolled at Crodlands, just off the Essex coast, where she is allowed to pursue her interest in stump-work and research into toxic chemicals.

Unfortunately, Gladys becomes somewhat restless and slips away to visit the ancestral home of the Babbington Mortons in Scotland. It is not long before she is relaxing on the croquet lawns and beginning to think seriously about a career. The post of cook at Morton Manor suddenly becomes vacant, and Roderick Bobbington Morton begins to suffer from a form of indigestion. Gladys leaves for America, alighting in Manhattan just as Inspector Trubcock arrives at Morton Manor.

(Bought second-hand at Help the Rural Child Charity Bookshop, Main Road, Retreat.)

Part murder mystery, part graphic novel, lots of wit and satire not unlike Gary Larson's.

Quick, enjoyable read. Whatever you do, don't mess with Gladys.

Given to Izikhova.

Unlike any other detective novel I've ever read but highly recommended - lots of imaginative, fun illustrations forming an integral part of the story line. Expect a nasty twist in the tail, Gladys being, well, Gladys.....