Mistress Masham's Repose

White is probably best known for his classic re-telling of the Arthurian legend, The Once and Future King. In Mistress Masham's Repose he draws the reader into another magical world, weaving an enchanting tale of the power of the little people to overcome evil in the face of seemingly impossible odds. Maria is an orphan being raised in a decaying mansion under the eagle eye of a cruel governess and a wily vicar. They are both desperate to get their hands on certain treasures they are convinced lie hidden in the heart of the rambling old house. Maria's only friends are the cook and an absent-minded professor whose life revolves around his books. Maria's life takes a turn for the better when she chances upon a colony of little people, hidden away behind the overgrown shubbery on the island of Mistress Masham's Repose. They are the desendants of the original inhabitant of Lilliput and her discovery has placed their peaceful existence under threat. Maria is torn by her conflicting feelings - she is no chocolate box heroine as her moods swing from peevishness to generosity, with every permutation in between. Mistress Masham's Repose was written by a scholar, and White's academic brilliance is apparent on every page. Despite the numerous erudite references, many of which will go over the heads of most adults, let alone children, the book rockets at a cracking pace, full of excitement and drama. The action builds up to a thrilling climax when in the tradition of the best fairy stories, the baddies get their comeuppance and right wins the day. Martin Hargreaves' exquisite illustrations conjure up in glorious detail the miniature world of the Lilliputians. He captures every nuance of expression as they come to terms with this overgrown child who has blundered into their lives. If you have enjoyed The Borrowers (which incidentally was published just a few years after Mistress Masham's Repose - it is tempting to speculate that Mary Norton would have been very familiar with White's novel), this book will be a delightful treat, and will require several readings before it reveals all its secrets. (Kirkus UK)