A vintage, children’s classic, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase is a children’s novel by Joan Aiken, first published in 1962. Joan Aiken wrote over a hundred books for young readers and adults and is recognized as one of the classic authors of the twentieth century. The novel is the first in the Wolves Chronicles; it was adapted into a film, with the same title, in 1989. One of the reviews given by Time is:

“A masterpiece…a copybook lesson in those virtues that a classic children’s book must possess.”–Time.

Wicked wolves and a grim governess threaten Bonnie and her cousin Sylvia when Bonnie’s parents leave Willoughby Chase for a sea voyage. Left in the care of the cruel Miss Slighcarp, the girls can hardly believe what is happening to their once happy home. The servants are dismissed, the furniture is sold, and Bonnie and Sylvia are sent to a prison-like orphan school. It seems as if the endless hours of drudgery will never cease. With the help of Simon the gooseboy and his flock, they escape and travel 400 miles to London with their friend Simon and his geese. But how will they ever get Willoughby Chase free from the clutches of the evil Miss Slighcarp..?

Read the book…or watch the film to find out! Haa!! 🙂

The language structure in the book is old-fashioned and reflects perfectly the age in which the story takes place. It might be harder for children who have never been exposed to that antiquated structure to follow, which is why reading it aloud first is recommended. Reading interest range 8-12 years old.

Have you read this book? What did you think of it?

I love reading your comments! 

Till next time…