Chapter Books

The Wolves of Willoughby Chase

I’m not sure how I missed this modern classic by Joan Aiken when I was growing up. It was published in 1962, but it never came on my radar until recently.

Better late than never! This briskly paced tale features a wealthy family, a Gothic mansion, a cruel governess, an English backdrop in which fierce wolves populate the countryside, and two very appealing child heroines who work together to overcome fearsome odds.

I think my daughters will like this thoroughly. It’s full of interest and wit, and although there is suspense and some degree of mystery, there is no ambiguity in the good vs. evil department. The heroes and villains are clearly designated, yet quirky enough to feel truthful and even funny at times. Also, the novel recalls to mind other stories, giving it a feeling of timelessness. The orphanage in the book reminded me of Jane Eyre, while the landscape recalled Wuthering Heights. The wonderful old house reminded me of Bleak House, the childrens’ adventure and ultimate resolution reminded me of Great Expectations, and the characterizations reminded me of Dickens in general. The Mysterious Benedict Society and Anne of Green Gables, both recent reads with my daughters, feature orphan children rising to the occasion and assembling families around themselves, and this story fits into a similar framework. All of these associations enriched my reading.

I enjoyed Wolves very much and look forward to my daughters’ reactions when they break into it for themselves.

8 Comments

  • Susan@Reading World

    Those old children’s books are such a treat. I’ve been able to discover and rediscover so many classics with my kids. I hadn’t heard of this one though. I’ll have to look for it. It sounds interesting.

  • JW

    I LOVE LOVE LOVE Joan Aiken. ALL of her books are fantastic. You have to read the rest of the Dido Twite set. This is just the first one. She is such a clever writer and so much fun. She also surmised what happened in the Austin novels AFTER… Try Mansfield Revisited. Really good. I recommend her website for loads of educational stuff http://www.joanaiken.com/
    Enjoy!

  • Sarah

    Good evening! I have thought of you often–Our son Andrew is a sophomore in college this year and is taking a CS Lewis/Wendell Berry seminar. He had already read some Berry and read lots more this summer. I would love to get your book for him!

    How is your family? Has your school year started? I enjoyed your recent posts–I am working at our public library in the children’s area–as Kent says, I am the college fund! I have misplaced your email address–would love to hear from you!

    Sarah

    • Janet

      Good to hear from you, Sarah! My email is in the sidebar — I’d love to get in touch.

      Our schoolyear started this week, and my brain is tired.

      Andrew’s class sounds wonderful!