This is the author's debut novel, first in the 'La Rochelle' series (though it doesn't take place in La Rochelle). It's about Gerry Challoner, brought up by Victorian great aunts, who goes to live with the lengthy Trevennor family (ten children all living at home, in their vicarage).

Much of the story takes place at the day school where eleven-year-old Gerry goes, after being educated somewhat haphazardly (and very formally) by a governess. Lots of incidents which, in varied forms, are familiar to fans of the Chalet School, Brent-Dyer's better known series.

Not the greatest of books, and I found the number of characters a bit overwhelming at first, but it made a good light read. I'm very pleased to have acquired it recently as I don't think I've ever read it before. Recommended in a low-key way to fans of this era of school stories. ( )