As soon as you pick this book up you will be captivated by its beautiful presentation; a cover that feels as soft as silk and reminds you of a carving from a medieval cathedral; shiny, repeated illustrations inside; good quality paper and amazing detailed pen and ink drawings that could have come from a luxurious colouring book for grown ups.
The story won't disappoint you either. It tells of Ada Goth who lives a very lonely life in a grand gothic house with her father, who is grieving for his beautiful wife, and an army of quirky servants. Ada is only allowed to see her father, who is a poet, for tea once a week and in the meantime she has to wear loud, clattery shoes so that she can be heard but not seen. Ada's father is well known for his entertaining and the household is preparing for the annual indoor hunt and the metaphorical bicycle race. Ada's life changes when she encounters the ghost of a mouse, Ishmael, who thinks he will be trapped in the gothic house for ever. Ada is determined to help him. She also meets two visitors to the house who have come with their father who is working on an invention and a servant girl who invites her to join the attic club. Together the children foil the plans of one of the servants, the indoor game keeper, to sabotage the indoor hunt. They are aided by Ada's new governess who turns out to be not quite what she seems to be.
This book just sparkles with imagination. I found out that Chris Riddell is a political cartoonist and perhaps that explains why is so inventive with his language. There are references to places and events that will make you double up with laughter and even though the book is largely nonsense you just can't help becoming involved with the characters. Watch out for the funny footnotes! An exciting bonus is the delightful little verse book that tells Ishmael's story. This is such a treasure of a book that I have bought several copies to give to my friends as gifts.
• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop.
Want to tell the world about a book you've read? Join the site and send us your review!
