'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Monday 31 January 2011

Review: Alice-Miranda Takes the Lead

Our favourite pint-sized heroine is back in this third installment of the popular Alice-Miranda series.

Even more drama is ahead for the girls of Winchesterfield-Downsfordvale, as they prepare to team up with the boys of the neighbouring school for a play.

This term there is another new girl at the school, too, and she isn't what any of them expected. Together with her mother, September Sykes, young Sloane has some terrible plans which will cause trouble for everyone.



Meanwhile, there is also a small case of the witch in the nearby forest. Does she really exist? And what will happen when Alice-Miranda and her friends are out in the unknown?

I adored the first two books in this series. And this third installment? Well, it's just as great as the others.

The character of Alice-Miranda is as cheerful and positive as ever, although she is growing and learning as she goes. This time she doesn't rush in quite so much to help everyone, instead taking the time to think things through and let the natural turns of events take their course.

Many of our old favourites return, including the newly happily married Miss Grimm and the other teachers. And some new characters take shape - some loveable, some not so much, but all of them are interesting.

These books take us back to the days of classic boarding school stories, with a modern turn and a lead character who draws us in with her enthusiasm.

Love it.

Title: Alice-Miranda Takes the Lead
Author: Jacqueline Harvey
Publisher: Random House, $15.95 RRP
Publication Date: February 2011
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781864718492
For ages: 7+
Type: Novel

This book is available online

Want more?

Visit the Alice-Miranda website

Read our reviews of the other books in this series:
Alice-Miranda at School
Alice-Miranda on Holiday

Read our interview with author Jacqueline Harvey

Read a special guest post by author Jacqueline Harvey