Bubble-and-squeak is more than just a fry-up of leftover cabbage, potato, and sausage. In this story by the author of Tom's Midnight Garden, Bubble and Squeak are two gerbils that become the focal point of a family war.

Young Sid owns the gerbils. His younger sisters Peggy and Amy love them. Their kind, softspoken stepfather doesn't mind them. But their Mum is driven to distraction by them, and can't wait to find a way to get rid of them. Just when it seems the two innocent pets will tear the family apart, it suddenly brings them together in a surprising, heart-touching way.

Not all tales have to have orphans, magic, and a cosmic battle of good and evil in them. Here we see everyday people - perhaps like your family - people with some good and evil in each of them, engaged in an everyday battle. I think the battle will engage you too.

Robbie Fischer
USA

Recommended Age: 10+

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