From School Library Journal
Grade 3–6—Jane, a British 11-year-old, is intrigued by the new girl, Staffa. The two enjoy all sorts of activities together, and Staffa's rather bombastic mother, Lady Matilda, invites her to visit them for the summer. Unbeknownst to Jane, if she accepts, she will become a pawn in a vicious plot that will prevent her from ever going home again. Through the vehicle of a dollhouselike box, Jane travels from her own world to that of a magical kingdom terrorized by Matilda, the dictatorial queen. She befriends the Eckers—the queen's fieldmouse-like subjects—and learns of their plans to overthrow the tyrant. When their revolution seems almost doomed, Jane courageously agrees to lead a rescue mission to free the imprisoned king. With the victory complete, Jane is able to return home. Children cannot help but be entranced by this Borrowers-like fantasy that mixes just enough otherworldliness with the realities of home, family, and friends to make one willingly suspend disbelief. The short chapters, introduced by well-executed black-and-white thumbnail sketches, are fast paced and clearly written. The many details, particularly those from the perspective of creatures much smaller than humans, add interest to an already-captivating story. While the rescue plan may be a bit contrived and the ending is predictable, they don't deter from the lively spirit and spunky characters that fill Saunders's text. The plot twists and turns enhance the tale and make one eager to buy into the protagonist's adventures. Furthermore, Jane's willingness to befriend those who are different will be a welcome message for today's readers.—
Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, formerly at LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Review
Praise for The Little Secret:
“This well-blended mix of romantic fantasy and gripping adventure, starring heroic girls, will speak to a broad audience.”—Publishers Weekly
“Children cannot help but be entranced by this Borrowers-like fantasy that mixes just enough otherworldliness with the realities of home, family, and friends to make one willingly suspend disbelief. The short chapters, introduced by well-executed black-and-white thumbnail sketches, are fast paced and clearly written. The many details, particularly those from the perspective of creatures much smaller than humans, add interest to an already-captivating story…The plot twists and turns enhance the tale and make one eager to buy into the protagonist’s adventures. Furthermore, Jane’s willingness to befriend those who are different will be a welcome message for today’s readers.”—School Library Journal
“Will intrigue many readers with well-imagined details of a strange land and the rather childlike adventures that take place there. Fine black-and-white illustrations at the chapter heads add to the book’s charm.”—Booklist
“The spry mix of action, friendship and good-besting-evil has undeniable appeal.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Girls will devour Kate Saunders’s The Little Secret.”—The Times (London)
“A special book . . . perfect for older girls, about an unusual friendship and a box to rival Pandora’s.” The Observer (London)
