The marvellous land of Snergs

About the book

In a secluded country where a society cares for unwanted children, Sylvia and Joe leave the protection of Miss Watkyns's establishment and encounter the world beyond its rules. Gorbo, one of the sturdy, sociable Snergs, becomes their companion as their wandering leads toward strange passages, an ogre, a witch, knights, and competing forms of authority. Hospitality can be generous or perilous, and a promising meal or shelter does not necessarily mean safety. Wyke-Smith mixes genuine threats with an amused narrator and a delight in food, feasts, and impractical behavior. The adventure's warmth comes from the loyalty of its imperfect guide, whose good intentions must work through mistakes and confusion rather than effortless heroic competence.

• Friendship and protection
• Dangerous hospitality
• Comic adventure

Why read it

Read it for a children's fantasy whose food-loving, fallible companion gives its perils a distinctive warmth and humor.

English text