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 Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people.
Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item.
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people.
Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item.
Who likes this book anyway?, 26 Oct 2008
The answer: No one.
This is the worst book i've ever read.
there was no part of the story i liked at all.
Enid blyton rewrite this book and don't bother to talk about timmy getting stuck in the marsh!
Rewrite it now!
Exciting book, 06 Sep 2008
It is very exciting book . I especially enjoyed the part where Timmy the dog 'legged it' to save uncle Quentin and Pierre.
Wonderfully Atmospheric, 20 Aug 2007
This is by far my favourite Enid Blyton novel and the one that led to my love of reading. I quickly devoured the rest of the Famous Five series, enjoying them all immensely. This one, however, will always remain my favourite.
Five Go to Smugglers Top - the first ever FF book I read, 12 Aug 2001
Reading this book started me on a long, long, journey with the Famous Five books that, even as a 40-plus year old I still re-visit from time to time. The memory of reading about the secret passages, the marsh, deaf Block, Mr Barling and all the other sinister characters in that most sinister of settings, absolutely fascinated and riveted me to the book and I never looked back. It is still my favourite of them all.
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people.
Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item.
Who likes this book anyway?, 26 Oct 2008
The answer: No one.
This is the worst book i've ever read.
there was no part of the story i liked at all.
Enid blyton rewrite this book and don't bother to talk about timmy getting stuck in the marsh!
Rewrite it now!
Exciting book, 06 Sep 2008
It is very exciting book . I especially enjoyed the part where Timmy the dog 'legged it' to save uncle Quentin and Pierre.
Wonderfully Atmospheric, 20 Aug 2007
This is by far my favourite Enid Blyton novel and the one that led to my love of reading. I quickly devoured the rest of the Famous Five series, enjoying them all immensely. This one, however, will always remain my favourite.
Five Go to Smugglers Top - the first ever FF book I read, 12 Aug 2001
Reading this book started me on a long, long, journey with the Famous Five books that, even as a 40-plus year old I still re-visit from time to time. The memory of reading about the secret passages, the marsh, deaf Block, Mr Barling and all the other sinister characters in that most sinister of settings, absolutely fascinated and riveted me to the book and I never looked back. It is still my favourite of them all.
Amazing, 02 Feb 2007
Being a ten year old I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It introduces Bill very well as her feisty character develops throughout the book and you see another side of Darrel. I love this book and recommed it to anybody who loves Enid Blytons Books.
What a great book in a Great Series, 03 Sep 2001
This another excellent Malory Towers Book with even more characters. I loved it, I couldn't put it down. I found Zerelda really funny. Read it it's great.
A book I just can't put down, 24 Mar 2001
This is another hair raising term for Darell and her friends. When they go back to Malory Towers (thats their boarding school) they find they have three new girls though their personalities couldn't be any more different. Bill short for Wilhelmina is totally into haorses and she has got seven brothers imagine that. Mavis with her "wunneful" voice well thats what Zerelda the other new girl would say, something happens this term what makes Mavis think a bit harder. Zerelda an American girl with her own ways but soon she settles down like a normal schoolgirl.
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people.
Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item.
Who likes this book anyway?, 26 Oct 2008
The answer: No one.
This is the worst book i've ever read.
there was no part of the story i liked at all.
Enid blyton rewrite this book and don't bother to talk about timmy getting stuck in the marsh!
Rewrite it now!
Exciting book, 06 Sep 2008
It is very exciting book . I especially enjoyed the part where Timmy the dog 'legged it' to save uncle Quentin and Pierre.
Wonderfully Atmospheric, 20 Aug 2007
This is by far my favourite Enid Blyton novel and the one that led to my love of reading. I quickly devoured the rest of the Famous Five series, enjoying them all immensely. This one, however, will always remain my favourite.
Five Go to Smugglers Top - the first ever FF book I read, 12 Aug 2001
Reading this book started me on a long, long, journey with the Famous Five books that, even as a 40-plus year old I still re-visit from time to time. The memory of reading about the secret passages, the marsh, deaf Block, Mr Barling and all the other sinister characters in that most sinister of settings, absolutely fascinated and riveted me to the book and I never looked back. It is still my favourite of them all.
Amazing, 02 Feb 2007
Being a ten year old I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It introduces Bill very well as her feisty character develops throughout the book and you see another side of Darrel. I love this book and recommed it to anybody who loves Enid Blytons Books.
What a great book in a Great Series, 03 Sep 2001
This another excellent Malory Towers Book with even more characters. I loved it, I couldn't put it down. I found Zerelda really funny. Read it it's great.
A book I just can't put down, 24 Mar 2001
This is another hair raising term for Darell and her friends. When they go back to Malory Towers (thats their boarding school) they find they have three new girls though their personalities couldn't be any more different. Bill short for Wilhelmina is totally into haorses and she has got seven brothers imagine that. Mavis with her "wunneful" voice well thats what Zerelda the other new girl would say, something happens this term what makes Mavis think a bit harder. Zerelda an American girl with her own ways but soon she settles down like a normal schoolgirl.
One of my favorites , 02 May 2007
I first read Malory Towers when my mum gave me the first book for my birthday and I've been hooked ever since and now collect all the different ones I can find and the fifth term is definately my favourite.
I do agree that it is a bit over the top, but there is something that makes this book more likeable than the rest, (I dont really like the third form), Sally doesn't really get a look in much except to back Darrell up and I would have slapped Katherine a long time ago. Gwen of course gets her come uppance and June is worse than ever.
One person who is even worse in this book is Darrell's babyish and goody two-shoes sister "Little" Felicity who gets on my last nerve.
Rather overdone, but still quite good, 01 Feb 2007
In this book, the girls have to organize the Christmas pantomime. It is to be "Cinderella".
Their talents and gifts for writing (Darrell), music (Irene), drawing (Belinda), singing (Mavis) and games (Felicity - she scores the winning goal in a lacrosse match in spite of a twisted ankle) are far too exaggerated, especially Darrell's role is overdone - she is an author as well as a games captain, and "Sally is to help her".
I found myself disliking Sally's part - she is a mere shadow of Darrell's - why not Darrell for playwright and Sally for games captain? But that's not unusual in girls' books - the heroine is interesting and so are her friends, but not her BEST friend - she is often only a back-up for the main character.
But I like the book... There's a new girl in the Fifth, Maureen, who is very much like Gwen.
Blyton shows her knowledge of human nature when Gwen hates the girl who is so much like her. Even Alicia detests her cousin June who is so much like her. The Gwen-Maureen-thing is well done and very amusing. Poor Gwen has a very bad time with the sickening Maureen!
Needless to say that Maureen has got blonde hair and blue eyes like all the baddies in Enid Blyton's book (Gwen in "Malory Towers" and "Angela" in "St. Clare's"). Having blonde hair and blue eyes myself, I don't like this stereotype.
What a pity that we don't know much about Pat and Rita, the funny twins who are to play Cinderella's ugly sisters - they should have had a bigger part in the book or the whole series, I'm sure I would have liked them. At first, Gwen is afraid of being chosen as an ugly sister, but during the play she finds herself envying them because their part is so comical. I believe it - an ugly sister must be much more entertaining and interesting than an innocent and boring "Cinderella"!
Then there is a horrible incident, when Moira, the unpopular head-girl, receives hateful anonymous letters - I would never have guessed who is the writer.
The mood is rather sinister - poisonous letters and many quarrels between the girls -, but Blyton lightens it up with a trick played by Mamzelle on the horrified girls - she uses trick teeth that make her look like a vampire. Very funny and delightful, unfortunately the whole chapter is left out in the German translation I read as a child.
I think I don't reveal too much by telling that the pantomime is a roaring success.
we thought it was an excellent book, 09 Jan 2002
This book was a excellent way of learning what boarding school is about and the fun things you can get up to. The play was very good and made me feel as if I was really there. My favourite characters in the books are Sally Hope, Alicia and Darrell Rivers. I have all of the collection of tapes and most of the books. I can read them over and over again and still enjoy them. I would recommend any girls reading this to read the books from the first one - First Term at Malory Towers through to the final installment - Last Term at Malory Towers.
You'll laugh, you'll cry and remember them for years to come, 20 Apr 2001
I read these books when I was a child and they were just terrific. You tend to always have someone in your class who is always scowling which is the whole idea of Gwen but imagine someone drawing you every time you scowled! Read the series to find out!
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people.
Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item.
Who likes this book anyway?, 26 Oct 2008
The answer: No one.
This is the worst book i've ever read.
there was no part of the story i liked at all.
Enid blyton rewrite this book and don't bother to talk about timmy getting stuck in the marsh!
Rewrite it now!
Exciting book, 06 Sep 2008
It is very exciting book . I especially enjoyed the part where Timmy the dog 'legged it' to save uncle Quentin and Pierre.
Wonderfully Atmospheric, 20 Aug 2007
This is by far my favourite Enid Blyton novel and the one that led to my love of reading. I quickly devoured the rest of the Famous Five series, enjoying them all immensely. This one, however, will always remain my favourite.
Five Go to Smugglers Top - the first ever FF book I read, 12 Aug 2001
Reading this book started me on a long, long, journey with the Famous Five books that, even as a 40-plus year old I still re-visit from time to time. The memory of reading about the secret passages, the marsh, deaf Block, Mr Barling and all the other sinister characters in that most sinister of settings, absolutely fascinated and riveted me to the book and I never looked back. It is still my favourite of them all.
Amazing, 02 Feb 2007
Being a ten year old I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It introduces Bill very well as her feisty character develops throughout the book and you see another side of Darrel. I love this book and recommed it to anybody who loves Enid Blytons Books.
What a great book in a Great Series, 03 Sep 2001
This another excellent Malory Towers Book with even more characters. I loved it, I couldn't put it down. I found Zerelda really funny. Read it it's great.
A book I just can't put down, 24 Mar 2001
This is another hair raising term for Darell and her friends. When they go back to Malory Towers (thats their boarding school) they find they have three new girls though their personalities couldn't be any more different. Bill short for Wilhelmina is totally into haorses and she has got seven brothers imagine that. Mavis with her "wunneful" voice well thats what Zerelda the other new girl would say, something happens this term what makes Mavis think a bit harder. Zerelda an American girl with her own ways but soon she settles down like a normal schoolgirl.
One of my favorites , 02 May 2007
I first read Malory Towers when my mum gave me the first book for my birthday and I've been hooked ever since and now collect all the different ones I can find and the fifth term is definately my favourite.
I do agree that it is a bit over the top, but there is something that makes this book more likeable than the rest, (I dont really like the third form), Sally doesn't really get a look in much except to back Darrell up and I would have slapped Katherine a long time ago. Gwen of course gets her come uppance and June is worse than ever.
One person who is even worse in this book is Darrell's babyish and goody two-shoes sister "Little" Felicity who gets on my last nerve.
Rather overdone, but still quite good, 01 Feb 2007
In this book, the girls have to organize the Christmas pantomime. It is to be "Cinderella".
Their talents and gifts for writing (Darrell), music (Irene), drawing (Belinda), singing (Mavis) and games (Felicity - she scores the winning goal in a lacrosse match in spite of a twisted ankle) are far too exaggerated, especially Darrell's role is overdone - she is an author as well as a games captain, and "Sally is to help her".
I found myself disliking Sally's part - she is a mere shadow of Darrell's - why not Darrell for playwright and Sally for games captain? But that's not unusual in girls' books - the heroine is interesting and so are her friends, but not her BEST friend - she is often only a back-up for the main character.
But I like the book... There's a new girl in the Fifth, Maureen, who is very much like Gwen.
Blyton shows her knowledge of human nature when Gwen hates the girl who is so much like her. Even Alicia detests her cousin June who is so much like her. The Gwen-Maureen-thing is well done and very amusing. Poor Gwen has a very bad time with the sickening Maureen!
Needless to say that Maureen has got blonde hair and blue eyes like all the baddies in Enid Blyton's book (Gwen in "Malory Towers" and "Angela" in "St. Clare's"). Having blonde hair and blue eyes myself, I don't like this stereotype.
What a pity that we don't know much about Pat and Rita, the funny twins who are to play Cinderella's ugly sisters - they should have had a bigger part in the book or the whole series, I'm sure I would have liked them. At first, Gwen is afraid of being chosen as an ugly sister, but during the play she finds herself envying them because their part is so comical. I believe it - an ugly sister must be much more entertaining and interesting than an innocent and boring "Cinderella"!
Then there is a horrible incident, when Moira, the unpopular head-girl, receives hateful anonymous letters - I would never have guessed who is the writer.
The mood is rather sinister - poisonous letters and many quarrels between the girls -, but Blyton lightens it up with a trick played by Mamzelle on the horrified girls - she uses trick teeth that make her look like a vampire. Very funny and delightful, unfortunately the whole chapter is left out in the German translation I read as a child.
I think I don't reveal too much by telling that the pantomime is a roaring success.
we thought it was an excellent book, 09 Jan 2002
This book was a excellent way of learning what boarding school is about and the fun things you can get up to. The play was very good and made me feel as if I was really there. My favourite characters in the books are Sally Hope, Alicia and Darrell Rivers. I have all of the collection of tapes and most of the books. I can read them over and over again and still enjoy them. I would recommend any girls reading this to read the books from the first one - First Term at Malory Towers through to the final installment - Last Term at Malory Towers.
You'll laugh, you'll cry and remember them for years to come, 20 Apr 2001
I read these books when I was a child and they were just terrific. You tend to always have someone in your class who is always scowling which is the whole idea of Gwen but imagine someone drawing you every time you scowled! Read the series to find out!
Everyone is right this deserves five stars!, 03 Nov 2008
This deserves 5 stars alright.
THIS BOOK IS JUST GREAT!
Enid blyton must have felt really proud when this book was finished.
She is just so good at writing books on the Famous Five.
You'll be missing out on a treat if you don't buy this book.
Go on. Buy it. I guarantee you will enjoy this as much as I do.
[Andrew Pillinger aged 13]
This is the best book in the world!, 08 Oct 2008
I loved this book especially when Julian was being rude but in a very polite way to the horrible Mr & Mrs Stick like, (when Julian was taking the Stick's supper of chicken instead of the bread and cheese given to the Five) Mr Stick says "Now look 'ere" and Julian says "I don't want to look at you, its not a pleasant sight". Then Mrs Stick says "insolence"to Julian.I loved it so much that I read it loads of times!!!
[Emily Boulter aged 8]
No. 2 of the collection!, 13 Jan 2008
More adventure's for the famous five and this time it involves a thief or two at Kirrin Cottage! I think it is suitable for all ages. Though it is a bit boring here, it is very exciting and adventurous.
Demon Rocks, 05 Mar 2007
This CD is just like the other already out on sale it follows the adventures of Enid Blyton's most famous group of kids and dog The Famous Five visit Demon Rocks and stay in a lighthouse and also find secret passage from Kirrin Cottage to Kirrin Farmhouse Famous fIve Fans will these well acted if you own the audio cassette versions you will have heard the stories before but CD's last much longer
The Famous Five Books, 03 Nov 2003
When I was young I read all of these books and I have never forgotten them. I am now buying them for my grandaughter as she loves to read.. Hopefully she will get as much enjoyment and escapism as I did.
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books!
Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally.
EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x
Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS.
FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books.
All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead.
Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ...
Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him.
CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette
The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people.
Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item.
Who likes this book anyway?, 26 Oct 2008
The answer: No one.
This is the worst book i've ever read.
there was no part of the story i liked at all.
Enid blyton rewrite this book and don't bother to talk about timmy getting stuck in the marsh!
Rewrite it now!
Exciting book, 06 Sep 2008
It is very exciting book . I especially enjoyed the part where Timmy the dog 'legged it' to save uncle Quentin and Pierre.
Wonderfully Atmospheric, 20 Aug 2007
This is by far my favourite Enid Blyton novel and the one that led to my love of reading. I quickly devoured the rest of the Famous Five series, enjoying them all immensely. This one, however, will always remain my favourite.
Five Go to Smugglers Top - the first ever FF book I read, 12 Aug 2001
Reading this book started me on a long, long, journey with the Famous Five books that, even as a 40-plus year old I still re-visit from time to time. The memory of reading about the secret passages, the marsh, deaf Block, Mr Barling and all the other sinister characters in that most sinister of settings, absolutely fascinated and riveted me to the book and I never looked back. It is still my favourite of them all.
Amazing, 02 Feb 2007
Being a ten year old I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It introduces Bill very well as her feisty character develops throughout the book and you see another side of Darrel. I love this book and recommed it to anybody who loves Enid Blytons Books.
What a great book in a Great Series, 03 Sep 2001
This another excellent Malory Towers Book with even more characters. I loved it, I couldn't put it down. I found Zerelda really funny. Read it it's great.
A book I just can't put down, 24 Mar 2001
This is another hair raising term for Darell and her friends. When they go back to Malory Towers (thats their boarding school) they find they have three new girls though their personalities couldn't be any more different. Bill short for Wilhelmina is totally into haorses and she has got seven brothers imagine that. Mavis with her "wunneful" voice well thats what Zerelda the other new girl would say, something happens this term what makes Mavis think a bit harder. Zerelda an American girl with her own ways but soon she settles down like a normal schoolgirl.
One of my favorites , 02 May 2007
I first read Malory Towers when my mum gave me the first book for my birthday and I've been hooked ever since and now collect all the different ones I can find and the fifth term is definately my favourite.
I do agree that it is a bit over the top, but there is something that makes this book more likeable than the rest, (I dont really like the third form), Sally doesn't really get a look in much except to back Darrell up and I would have slapped Katherine a long time ago. Gwen of course gets her come uppance and June is worse than ever.
One person who is even worse in this book is Darrell's babyish and goody two-shoes sister "Little" Felicity who gets on my last nerve.
Rather overdone, but still quite good, 01 Feb 2007
In this book, the girls have to organize the Christmas pantomime. It is to be "Cinderella".
Their talents and gifts for writing (Darrell), music (Irene), drawing (Belinda), singing (Mavis) and games (Felicity - she scores the winning goal in a lacrosse match in spite of a twisted ankle) are far too exaggerated, especially Darrell's role is overdone - she is an author as well as a games captain, and "Sally is to help her".
I found myself disliking Sally's part - she is a mere shadow of Darrell's - why not Darrell for playwright and Sally for games captain? But that's not unusual in girls' books - the heroine is interesting and so are her friends, but not her BEST friend - she is often only a back-up for the main character.
But I like the book... There's a new girl in the Fifth, Maureen, who is very much like Gwen.
Blyton shows her knowledge of human nature when Gwen hates the girl who is so much like her. Even Alicia detests her cousin June who is so much like her. The Gwen-Maureen-thing is well done and very amusing. Poor Gwen has a very bad time with the sickening Maureen!
Needless to say that Maureen has got blonde hair and blue eyes like all the baddies in Enid Blyton's book (Gwen in "Malory Towers" and "Angela" in "St. Clare's"). Having blonde hair and blue eyes myself, I don't like this stereotype.
What a pity that we don't know much about Pat and Rita, the funny twins who are to play Cinderella's ugly sisters - they should have had a bigger part in the book or the whole series, I'm sure I would have liked them. At first, Gwen is afraid of being chosen as an ugly sister, but during the play she finds herself envying them because their part is so comical. I believe it - an ugly sister must be much more entertaining and interesting than an innocent and boring "Cinderella"!
Then there is a horrible incident, when Moira, the unpopular head-girl, receives hateful anonymous letters - I would never have guessed who is the writer.
The mood is rather sinister - poisonous letters and many quarrels between the girls -, but Blyton lightens it up with a trick played by Mamzelle on the horrified girls - she uses trick teeth that make her look like a vampire. Very funny and delightful, unfortunately the whole chapter is left out in the German translation I read as a child.
I think I don't reveal too much by telling that the pantomime is a roaring success.
we thought it was an excellent book, 09 Jan 2002
This book was a excellent way of learning what boarding school is about and the fun things you can get up to. The play was very good and made me feel as if I was really there. My favourite characters in the books are Sally Hope, Alicia and Darrell Rivers. I have all of the collection of tapes and most of the books. I can read them over and over again and still enjoy them. I would recommend any girls reading this to read the books from the first one - First Term at Malory Towers through to the final installment - Last Term at Malory Towers.
You'll laugh, you'll cry and remember them for years to come, 20 Apr 2001
I read these books when I was a child and they were just terrific. You tend to always have someone in your class who is always scowling which is the whole idea of Gwen but imagine someone drawing you every time you scowled! Read the series to find out!
Everyone is right this deserves five stars!, 03 Nov 2008
This deserves 5 stars alright.
THIS BOOK IS JUST GREAT!
Enid blyton must have felt really proud when this book was finished.
She is just so good at writing books on the Famous Five.
You'll be missing out on a treat if you don't buy this book.
Go on. Buy it. I guarantee you will enjoy this as much as I do.
[Andrew Pillinger aged 13]
This is the best book in the world!, 08 Oct 2008
I loved this book especially when Julian was being rude but in a very polite way to the horrible Mr & Mrs Stick like, (when Julian was taking the Stick's supper of chicken instead of the bread and cheese given to the Five) Mr Stick says "Now look 'ere" and Julian says "I don't want to look at you, its not a pleasant sight". Then Mrs Stick says "insolence"to Julian.I loved it so much that I read it loads of times!!!
[Emily Boulter aged 8]
No. 2 of the collection!, 13 Jan 2008
More adventure's for the famous five and this time it involves a thief or two at Kirrin Cottage! I think it is suitable for all ages. Though it is a bit boring here, it is very exciting and adventurous.
Demon Rocks, 05 Mar 2007
This CD is just like the other already out on sale it follows the adventures of Enid Blyton's most famous group of kids and dog The Famous Five visit Demon Rocks and stay in a lighthouse and also find secret passage from Kirrin Cottage to Kirrin Farmhouse Famous fIve Fans will these well acted if you own the audio cassette versions you will have heard the stories before but CD's last much longer
The Famous Five Books, 03 Nov 2003
When I was young I read all of these books and I have never forgotten them. I am now buying them for my grandaughter as she loves to read.. Hopefully she will get as much enjoyment and escapism as I did.
ALL RIGHT!, 02 May 2008
This book is about one summer when the Secret Seven went to find a new place to hold meetings and they find a tree and also a poor scared boy with his cute kitten...
I think that this has a very exciting ending! I also liked the way the clues came together swiftly once the Seven started on the right track. One of the great things about the Secret Seven books is how fast the plots steam along once they get going, with hardly leaving the plot of the story at all.
As the third book in the series, this story is one of the best of Blyton and one of my favourites too. It cleverly paves the way for a series of similar but more complicated stories to come. I would rate this book: 7/10.
Exciting, fun and enjoyable, 04 Nov 2006
For part of my son's school book week all pupils had to write a book review. This is what my son of six year wrote:
This is book three in a series of fifteen mystery adventure books about the Secret Seven. So far I have read four of the Secret Seven books.
The Secret Seven are Peter the leader, his sister Janet and their school friends Pam, Colin, George, Jack and Barbara. The Secret Seven are helped by Peter and Janet's dog Scamper.
The Secret Seven need a new headquarters so they build a tree house. The mystery starts when someone secretly sneaks in the tree house and ends in a chase of two thieves.
I enjoyed the book because it was exciting and made me want to read it again. Boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old would like this book.
I would recommend this book to children who can read to themselves because this makes it more exciting.
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Customer Reviews
She's hooked!, 30 Dec 2008
My 6 year old had this for Christmas (as recommended by a previous review) and she hasn't stopped listening to it yet. She listens to both CDs every night and today asked me if there was a DVD/Video as she is dying to see what everyone looks like! A long discussion about imagination followed but I am sure she will go on to the other Boarding School books! Don't knock it until, 17 Dec 2007
It's almost unbelievable. A thoroughly modern six year old girl listening again, and again, and again to these peculiar stories. The characters and their circumstances are so far removed from modern life they might come from the Moon. The dialogue and dramatisation are, on the face of it, banal or incredible. The writing is basic in the extreme. There's no grist for an adult mind, except to ponder wistfully on the fabulous notion of sending your kids off to boarding school, "shutting up the house", dismissing the domestics, and swanning off on holiday. The whole thing is absurd. And yet. It produces magic. I found my eight year old son enjoying the CDs, and it can even get under my skin at the three hundredth hearing.. Wonderful. Literally. EXCELLENT, 29 Jun 2007
This is the same recording as the cassette one we have owned for years, which is really good news, as there are no irritating changes and 'updates' We really enjoy these stories, funny and entertaining. This CD is FAB! x Fabulous, 12 Dec 2005
It is very interesting and fantabulous book.I like it very much. "The Naughtiest Girl" ROCKS. FANTASTIC!, 30 Sep 2005
This is one of Enid Blyton's best books, rating up with the Famous Five and Malory Towers/St Clare series of books. All about a spoilt little girl who is sent to boarding school, tries to be sent away, and doesn't succeed, growing to love the place instead. Maybe the parents of some of our current politicians could have had the same idea ... Secret Seven, 25 Jul 2007
I introduced my seven year old Grandson to Enid Blyton and he can't get enough of her books. He is a Californian who is now living in France so has no knowledge of England at any time. He doesn't care he loves the stories. They are not old fashioned to him they are just good tales. With CD's he can listen at any time instead of having to wait for bedtime for us to read to him. CD at last, 03 Feb 2007
I own all 21 Famous Five stories on audio cassette which I can play OK but they are starting to degrade an lose their sound so i am now recollecting them on CD.
Every story is taken from the series of books by Enid Blyton if your had the books read to you or read them yourself you know how good the stories are these are the next step have them acted out by voice actors each is dramatised but abrigded but well recorded and priced if you are a Secret Seven fan they are slowly appearing on CD also.
These CD are great by if like me your have everyone on cassette The same... but then not., 06 Oct 2008
The stories are as good as the "normal" Famous Five audio CDs, but a word of caution. The actors who read the parts of the five (except Timmy of course), and mother, aren't the same as the other Hodder CDs. Not that it detracts from the stories (and the voices are indeed very close), but small children can be confused as to why the "Five" aren't the same people. Be careful, 22 Dec 2007
Be aware that you are purchasing a CD and not a book. This is not made clear on the descriptions or details given for the item. I got a real shock when I opened my parcel and discovered it wasn't a book. Thankfully I know my niece will like it anyway. Otherwise it's quite a good item. Who likes this book anyway?, 26 Oct 2008
The answer: No one.
This is the worst book i've ever read.
there was no part of the story i liked at all.
Enid blyton rewrite this book and don't bother to talk about timmy getting stuck in the marsh!
Rewrite it now! Exciting book, 06 Sep 2008
It is very exciting book . I especially enjoyed the part where Timmy the dog 'legged it' to save uncle Quentin and Pierre. Wonderfully Atmospheric, 20 Aug 2007
This is by far my favourite Enid Blyton novel and the one that led to my love of reading. I quickly devoured the rest of the Famous Five series, enjoying them all immensely. This one, however, will always remain my favourite. Five Go to Smugglers Top - the first ever FF book I read, 12 Aug 2001
Reading this book started me on a long, long, journey with the Famous Five books that, even as a 40-plus year old I still re-visit from time to time. The memory of reading about the secret passages, the marsh, deaf Block, Mr Barling and all the other sinister characters in that most sinister of settings, absolutely fascinated and riveted me to the book and I never looked back. It is still my favourite of them all. Amazing, 02 Feb 2007
Being a ten year old I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It introduces Bill very well as her feisty character develops throughout the book and you see another side of Darrel. I love this book and recommed it to anybody who loves Enid Blytons Books. What a great book in a Great Series, 03 Sep 2001
This another excellent Malory Towers Book with even more characters. I loved it, I couldn't put it down. I found Zerelda really funny. Read it it's great. A book I just can't put down, 24 Mar 2001
This is another hair raising term for Darell and her friends. When they go back to Malory Towers (thats their boarding school) they find they have three new girls though their personalities couldn't be any more different. Bill short for Wilhelmina is totally into haorses and she has got seven brothers imagine that. Mavis with her "wunneful" voice well thats what Zerelda the other new girl would say, something happens this term what makes Mavis think a bit harder. Zerelda an American girl with her own ways but soon she settles down like a normal schoolgirl. One of my favorites , 02 May 2007
I first read Malory Towers when my mum gave me the first book for my birthday and I've been hooked ever since and now collect all the different ones I can find and the fifth term is definately my favourite.
I do agree that it is a bit over the top, but there is something that makes this book more likeable than the rest, (I dont really like the third form), Sally doesn't really get a look in much except to back Darrell up and I would have slapped Katherine a long time ago. Gwen of course gets her come uppance and June is worse than ever.
One person who is even worse in this book is Darrell's babyish and goody two-shoes sister "Little" Felicity who gets on my last nerve. Rather overdone, but still quite good, 01 Feb 2007
In this book, the girls have to organize the Christmas pantomime. It is to be "Cinderella".
Their talents and gifts for writing (Darrell), music (Irene), drawing (Belinda), singing (Mavis) and games (Felicity - she scores the winning goal in a lacrosse match in spite of a twisted ankle) are far too exaggerated, especially Darrell's role is overdone - she is an author as well as a games captain, and "Sally is to help her".
I found myself disliking Sally's part - she is a mere shadow of Darrell's - why not Darrell for playwright and Sally for games captain? But that's not unusual in girls' books - the heroine is interesting and so are her friends, but not her BEST friend - she is often only a back-up for the main character.
But I like the book... There's a new girl in the Fifth, Maureen, who is very much like Gwen.
Blyton shows her knowledge of human nature when Gwen hates the girl who is so much like her. Even Alicia detests her cousin June who is so much like her. The Gwen-Maureen-thing is well done and very amusing. Poor Gwen has a very bad time with the sickening Maureen!
Needless to say that Maureen has got blonde hair and blue eyes like all the baddies in Enid Blyton's book (Gwen in "Malory Towers" and "Angela" in "St. Clare's"). Having blonde hair and blue eyes myself, I don't like this stereotype.
What a pity that we don't know much about Pat and Rita, the funny twins who are to play Cinderella's ugly sisters - they should have had a bigger part in the book or the whole series, I'm sure I would have liked them. At first, Gwen is afraid of being chosen as an ugly sister, but during the play she finds herself envying them because their part is so comical. I believe it - an ugly sister must be much more entertaining and interesting than an innocent and boring "Cinderella"!
Then there is a horrible incident, when Moira, the unpopular head-girl, receives hateful anonymous letters - I would never have guessed who is the writer.
The mood is rather sinister - poisonous letters and many quarrels between the girls -, but Blyton lightens it up with a trick played by Mamzelle on the horrified girls - she uses trick teeth that make her look like a vampire. Very funny and delightful, unfortunately the whole chapter is left out in the German translation I read as a child.
I think I don't reveal too much by telling that the pantomime is a roaring success. we thought it was an excellent book, 09 Jan 2002
This book was a excellent way of learning what boarding school is about and the fun things you can get up to. The play was very good and made me feel as if I was really there. My favourite characters in the books are Sally Hope, Alicia and Darrell Rivers. I have all of the collection of tapes and most of the books. I can read them over and over again and still enjoy them. I would recommend any girls reading this to read the books from the first one - First Term at Malory Towers through to the final installment - Last Term at Malory Towers. You'll laugh, you'll cry and remember them for years to come, 20 Apr 2001
I read these books when I was a child and they were just terrific. You tend to always have someone in your class who is always scowling which is the whole idea of Gwen but imagine someone drawing you every time you scowled! Read the series to find out! Everyone is right this deserves five stars!, 03 Nov 2008
This deserves 5 stars alright.
THIS BOOK IS JUST GREAT!
Enid blyton must have felt really proud when this book was finished.
She is just so good at writing books on the Famous Five.
You'll be missing out on a treat if you don't buy this book.
Go on. Buy it. I guarantee you will enjoy this as much as I do.
[Andrew Pillinger aged 13] This is the best book in the world!, 08 Oct 2008
I loved this book especially when Julian was being rude but in a very polite way to the horrible Mr & Mrs Stick like, (when Julian was taking the Stick's supper of chicken instead of the bread and cheese given to the Five) Mr Stick says "Now look 'ere" and Julian says "I don't want to look at you, its not a pleasant sight". Then Mrs Stick says "insolence"to Julian.I loved it so much that I read it loads of times!!!
[Emily Boulter aged 8] No. 2 of the collection!, 13 Jan 2008
More adventure's for the famous five and this time it involves a thief or two at Kirrin Cottage! I think it is suitable for all ages. Though it is a bit boring here, it is very exciting and adventurous. Demon Rocks, 05 Mar 2007
This CD is just like the other already out on sale it follows the adventures of Enid Blyton's most famous group of kids and dog The Famous Five visit Demon Rocks and stay in a lighthouse and also find secret passage from Kirrin Cottage to Kirrin Farmhouse Famous fIve Fans will these well acted if you own the audio cassette versions you will have heard the stories before but CD's last much longer The Famous Five Books, 03 Nov 2003
When I was young I read all of these books and I have never forgotten them. I am now buying them for my grandaughter as she loves to read.. Hopefully she will get as much enjoyment and escapism as I did. ALL RIGHT!, 02 May 2008
This book is about one summer when the Secret Seven went to find a new place to hold meetings and they find a tree and also a poor scared boy with his cute kitten...
I think that this has a very exciting ending! I also liked the way the clues came together swiftly once the Seven started on the right track. One of the great things about the Secret Seven books is how fast the plots steam along once they get going, with hardly leaving the plot of the story at all.
As the third book in the series, this story is one of the best of Blyton and one of my favourites too. It cleverly paves the way for a series of similar but more complicated stories to come. I would rate this book: 7/10. Exciting, fun and enjoyable, 04 Nov 2006
For part of my son's school book week all pupils had to write a book review. This is what my son of six year wrote:
This is book three in a series of fifteen mystery adventure books about the Secret Seven. So far I have read four of the Secret Seven books.
The Secret Seven are Peter the leader, his sister Janet and their school friends Pam, Colin, George, Jack and Barbara. The Secret Seven are helped by Peter and Janet's dog Scamper.
The Secret Seven need a new headquarters so they build a tree house. The mystery starts when someone secretly sneaks in the tree house and ends in a chase of two thieves.
I enjoyed the book because it was exciting and made me want to read it again. Boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old would like this book.
I would recommend this book to children who can read to themselves because this makes it more exciting. A great story for girls, 30 Apr 2008
I really enjoyed this book from the first page. I like the way Enid Blyton introduces new characters and tells you about their personality. I think I would love to be at St Clare's and play lacrosse and go swimming. The teas sound lovely and I think it would be good to have to stay at school over the weekends with all your friends Stories which stand the test of time, 07 Feb 2007
I first read the St Clare's series when I was about 9 years old. Now I'm 33 and am re-reading them for about the fourth time and they're still as enjoyable and wonderful as ever.
The Twins at St Clare's is the first book in a collection of six (excluding the two extra stories written by Pamela Cox) and introduces us to Pat and Isobel O'Sullivan, who are new to the school after undertaking their previous schooling at snobby boarding school Redroofs. When the twins arrive at St Clare's they are stuck up and determined to dislike everything about their new school but bit by bit St Clare's weaves its magic spell over them and they settle in, make new friends and actually start to enjoy themselves.
This is a school story filled with fun, tricks and midnight feasts. I can't tell you how special these stories are to me. As well as enjoying the tale they always evoke a feeling of nostalgia as I remember those old and well loved characters (Janet, Hilary, Mamzelle...) A fabulous read which has stood the test of time. Enid Blyton would have been proud to learn that readers are still enjoying her books sixty years after they were written.
A good school story, 22 Jul 2006
Enid Blyton's books, as usual, never fail to give me an enjoyable read. This book is no exception. It tells about the snobbish O'Sullivan twins who are sent to a boarding school they don't want to go to. They set out to make lives miserable for everyone around them, but the only lives they make miserable are their own. They soon learn their lesson and settle down, occasionally getting into trouble. Stories which stand the test of time, 31 Jan 2006
I first read the St Clare's series when I was about 9 years old. Now I'm 33 and am re-reading them for about the fourth time and they're still as enjoyable and wonderful as ever. The Twins at St Clare's is the first book in a collection of six (excluding the two extra stories written by Pamela Cox) and introduces us to Pat and Isobel O'Sullivan, who are new to the school after undertaking their previous schooling at snobby boarding school Redroofs. When the twins arrive at St Clare's they are stuck up and determined to dislike everything about their new school but bit by bit St Clare's weaves its magic spell over them and they settle in, make new friends and actually start to enjoy themselves. This is a school story filled with fun, tricks and midnight feasts. I can't tell you how special these stories are to me. As well as enjoying the tale they always evoke a feeling of nostalgia as I remember those old and well loved characters (Janet, Hilary, Mamzelle...) A fabulous read which has stood the test of time. Enid Blyton would have been proud to learn that readers are still enjoying her books sixty years after they were written.
TWINS AT ST CLARES - WOW!, 20 Feb 2004
there are several phrases to describe this: Brilliant, fantastic, funny, amusing, hard-to-put-down, fabulous, fabtastitc, wonderful and amazing. That was just a few. This book is one of the St clare's stories and I must say a brilliant one. It is the first in the series and "The funniest school series by enid blyton" Pat(ricia) and Isabelle O'sullivan are identical twins -they want to go to a really expensive school but their parents decide to send them to St Clares instead. So the two decide to do as worst as possible.
Read the book to find out more!
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