The Otterbury Incident

Cecil Day-Lewis's classic "The Otterbury Incident" transports readers to a charming yet adventurous post-WWII English provincial town. When an accidental broken window leaves an orphaned schoolboy with an insurmountable debt, two rival gangs at King's School declare a temporary truce. United by a sense of collective responsibility, they embark on a series of humorous money-making schemes. However, their hard-earned funds mysteriously vanish, forcing the boys to transform into amateur detectives. They uncover a far more serious criminal enterprise involving black-market goods and counterfeit money, leading to a thrilling confrontation with dangerous local "spivs." Narrated with a witty, mock-heroic tone, this book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, justice, and bravery, while offering a glimpse into a specific historical period. It's perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy adventure, mystery, and a touch of humor.

War games between rival companies lead to complications at the King's School, Otterbury.