One of the joys of reading books written for children is being transported back to one’s own childhood and the luxury of escaping to a world where good triumphs against the odds, characters grow in confidence, and everything comes together in a spirit of optimism and hope in the end. Judith Eagle’s historical novels are reliable both in the quality of the writing and in the positive spirit in which the story develops. The Great Theatre Rescue, her latest title for Faber published in February, is another delight, an engrossing plot that twists and turns until the final chapter and a wonderful cast of characters. I loved this!

It is the early 1930s in London’s theatreland and Charley has grown up knowing her Dad’s theatre, The Wren, as home and the performers as family. She dreams of being a dancer on the stage and following in her late mother’s footsteps. However a change in circumstances and her father’s absence results in Charley being dispatched to a truly dreadful boarding school many miles away. Charley has learned that her beloved theatre is under threat so she embarks on the long journey back to London with her new friend, Jewel, determined to put things right. Her plans are threatened by danger and intrigue and her own impulsiveness and the reader is swept along willing the irrepressible Charley to succeed.

Judith Eagle’s detailed and atmospheric descriptions of London in the 1930s provide a wonderful backdrop to this well plotted and engrossing adventure. The inclusion of real life characters such as Duke Ellington add a touch of authenticity to the drama and as a reader one easily becomes drawn into this story of family and mystery. The author has included many of the elements familiar to readers of classic fiction for children such as orphans, family secrets, a couple of truly dreadful villains, an epic journey and even a loyal dog. In The Great Theatre Rescue these elements feel fresh and there is a warmth to the story which is engaging. Charley is a delightful and appealing character and her development throughout the book is an uplifting aspect. The friendship between Charley and Jewel is an interesting element and there are well drawn relationships with various adult characters too. At times there is almost a Dickensian feel to the plot and even as an adult I was reluctant to put this book down.

This would, I think, be an excellent book to share in the classroom. The twisty plot and the cast of characters would make it a treat to read aloud and the rich descriptions could be used as a writing example too. A lovely book to recommend to fans of Emma Carroll or A. M Howell’s books, The Great Theatre Rescue would be a valuable addition to school library shelves.

I should like to thank the publishers, Faber Children’s Books and Bethany Carter for my proof copy. The Great Theatre Rescue is published on 13th February and is highly recommended.