Little Darlings

Sam Llewellyn (author)

Puffin Books, UK: 2004; 276pp

ISBN: 0141316918

Genres: adventure, humour

Issues: family, friendship

The Darlings are an extremely rich couple who lives in a terribly exclusive mansion. They like to go Out to Dinner every night so that they can show off their incredible wealth to their almost-as-rich friends. The only problem is that the three children - Daisy (mastermind), Cassian (engineer), and Primrose (cook) - need a Nanny to mind them.

Ever since Mama Darling left and was replaced by Secretary Mama, the children have been left very much to their own devices - a fatal mistake. These little Darlings have, to date, succeeded in ousting eighteen nannies through the use of a system of horrible tricks.

The arrival of Nanny Pete brings a change, however. Called in an emergency when Nanny Dodgson is unfortunately electrocuted and then covered with burnt custard (standard nursery fare), Nanny Pete introduces the children to take-away food. She asks questions. She listens to answers. In other words, she can't be a real nanny. The little Darlings are in for a big surprise when they stow away in Nanny Pete's black Jag - as is Nanny Pete. But perhaps it is for the best - perhaps, finally, the little Darlings will be allowed to demonstrate their true skills and find some adults who truly appreciate their unique abilities.

This is a very funny story that will appeal to the naughty child in all readers, young and old alike. While their actions are just plain wicked, the Darling children are extremely entertaining characters who manage to turn the most simple of activities into chaos, without even trying. Nanny Pete and her associates are equally amusing and the mystery of the Royal Edward is plain puzzling. Older readers (or those who are reading it aloud) will enjoy the not-so-subtle subtext about family relationships, wealth, and the value of a good friend, no matter their size or age.