The Castle in the Attic By Elisabeth Winthrop (original 1985; udgave 1996)

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The "nanny-child" relationship seems quite a bit outdated for a book first published in the mid-80s. It seemed like something you'd expect from a late-19th or early-20th century children's story, and likely one with a British setting. This one's good enough that I am going to read the sequel, but it's nowhere near the top of my Middle Reader reading. ( )

William is having a hard time adjusting. He's just found out that his beloved Mrs. Philips is leaving him to return home to London. She's been his companion since he was born, but now he's old enough to look after himself, and, hey, his parents are going to spend more time with him now. William is taking it so hard, because Mrs. Philips is family, but also because he's a bit of a loner, with only one friend not a British nanny, and - dare I say a - crybaby? I scrubbed away a lot of this characterization when I was little, so it was surprising to read it now. That is not why the book has faded for me. William's character, as atypical as it is for such an 'early' kids novel, is vital to the success of the story. His success is so much more meaningful knowing his struggles.

My problem was everything else. 'The Castle in the Attic' was full of mystery and magic, and I imagined myself exploring the castle, meeting Sir Simon, learning swordplay and, why not?, gymnastics. The prophecy was thrilling, the danger so clear. As an adult all of this faded into the simple language demanded at the time. The world William travels to didn't feel convincing, and the nanny problem seemed absurd to me. Has William never really bonded with his parents before this? Who would hire a nanny knowing that was the result? Winthrop likely didn't intend this, but it felt as if Mrs. Philips was responsible for coddling William and her presence isolated him most of the other children.

This is still a worthy book for kids, but I'm afraid its another one lost in the nostalgia wars.

Castle

Next: 'Battle for the Castle' ( )

It’s about ten year old William, who is upset that their housekeeper is returning to England. Mrs Phillips gives him a model castle with a silver knight that she inherited. When William finds out about the enchantment on the silver knight, he comes up with a plan which he hopes will stop Mrs Phillips from leaving.

I can see how this story would have a lot of appeal for a kid. But I’m not one anymore and if I’m reading about characters who are much younger than me, I want more humour, more quirkiness, and more vivid scenery. This fantasy world is fairly straightforward. And there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s just not what I was looking for. ( )

This book is about a young boy named William who receives a castle from his maid that has raised him. When he goes to play with it, it comes to life and he is sucked in to their world and is thrown into battling an evil wizard and dragon.