The Wolves Of Willoughby Chase

"The Wolves of Willoughby Chase" introduces readers to an alternate 19th-century England where wolves roam freely and a new Channel Tunnel exists. The story follows cousins Bonnie and Sylvia, who are left in the care of the conniving Miss Slighcarp while Bonnie's parents are away. The girls soon find themselves battling not only the literal wolves outside, but also the metaphorical wolves within their own home, as Miss Slighcarp and her accomplice, Mr. Grimshaw, attempt to steal the family fortune. Their struggle leads them to a brutal orphanage run by the equally cruel Mrs. Brisket, where they must use their courage, resilience, and the help of loyal friends to escape and expose the villains. This classic adventure is perfect for children aged 8-12, offering a thrilling plot, strong characters, and clear themes of good versus evil, friendship, and justice. Parents should be aware of scenes depicting peril, bullying, and harsh living conditions, which can be discussed as opportunities to explore resilience and empathy.

This novel is the first in the Wolves Chronicles (aka The Wolves of Willoughby Chase Series), a series of children's novels set during the fictional early-19th century reign of King James the third. A large number of wolves have migrated from the bitter cold of Europe and Russia into Britain via a new "channel tunnel", and terrorize the inhabitants of rural areas. Read about the adventures of cousins Bonnie and Sylvia and their friend Simon the goose-boy as they thwart the evil schemes of their governess Miss Slighcarp, and their so called "teacher" at boarding school, Mrs. Brisket. The story was made into a film in 1989.