It's the 1950's & when her parents abandon their seedy Streatham pub for a tearoom in Kent, life for April changes dramatically. She is befriended by the wonderfully dangerous Ruby and by the creepy but immaculately dressed Mr Greenridge, who likes to follow her around the village.

(ex-library book)

When I bought this book it was with the intention of releasing it, without reading, as part of the ULTIMATE CHALLENGE as it fit the bill for Augusts "ELEMENTS" theme. However I decided to read it first....& I'm glad I did!

From the first chapter I wasn't sure I take to this tale but as soon as it slipped back in time to eight-year-old April's life in the 1950's it was a joy. The characters are quirky & amusing...& creepy (the paedophiliac Mr Greenridge..eeyuck!)

The humour reminded me in style of Kate Atkinson. This bit in particular made me smile...April is asking her Mum if "The Copper Kettle" has been busy -
"Have you been busy, Mum?"
"Rushed off my feet, I don't think. Only your Mr Greenridge & a travelling saleman in ladies underwear."
We stared at her.
"How did you know?" I asked.

:o)

Read as part of the 2009 ULTIMATE CHALLENGE - themed "EARTH AIR FIRE & WATER" read for August
& the REDUCE MOUNT TBR CHALLENGE (#60)

CONTROLLED RELEASE NOTES:

On it's way to EBarkwith-OBCZ...hope someone will choose it & enjoy it :o)

Released as part of the 2009 ULTIMATE CHALLENGE- themed release for July "ELEMENTS - Earth, Air Fire & Water"

Many thanks to Plum-crazy who kindly sent a huge parcel of books for the OBCZ, including this one.

This looks like a lovely story of growing up in the 1950s.