Amazon.co.uk Review
Here, her story concerns the fate of brother and sister, Clarrie and Will, whose misfortunes lead them into residing with their Uncle Len. While their father is in Australia trying to secure a job and a brighter future for his family, their mother, in Ireland for a funeral, is trapped there--wrongly accused of stealing a basket of food. Len’s brilliance as a ventriloquist is matched only by his special ability to destroy his career by the consumption of beer.
Then one of Will’s seemingly perfect ideas saves the day. He suggests that he dresses up as the twin of Len’s dummy, Frozen Billy, to form a new act. Carrie is severely unnerved by Len’s life-like dummy and becomes even more so when Will’s personality begins to change and distort when their double act is a success. Carrie thinks this new stage act has the power to destroy her whole family and she must act fast to save everybody.
Fine’s unsettling narrative is different from her trademark domestic dramas--but it is equally as powerful. It’s a chilling tale, with hints of the supernatural that nevertheless has charm and excitement. And, as with all of Fine’s novels, is has the requisite happy ending. (Age 10 and over) --John McLay
Review
- "The Bookseller"
" This is a real treat. Her trademark humour, engaging characters and flawless prose are put to great effect in this spooky adventure."
- "Teaching and Learning"
"From the Trade Paperback edition."
