The Mysterious Howling

Title: The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: The Mysterious Howling
Author: Maryrose Wood
ISBN: 9780061791055
Published: Feb 2010
Genre: fiction, mystery
Other books in the series: The Hidden Gallery, The Unseen Gues
Characters: Penelope Lumley, Alexander, Cassiopeia, Beowolf, Lord Ashton
Reading Level:  6th grade
Interest Level: 4th-7th grade
Plot Summary: Miss Penelope Lumley is recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females. Much to her surprise Penelope finds herself a job as the governess for 3 children at the beautiful and rich Ashton Place. Though when Penelope gets to Ashton Place she is surprised by what she finds. She doesn't find 3 children in the nursery but instead she finds the 3 children huddled in the barn, howling. Apparently the 3 children were found in the woods having been raised by wolves. It is now Penelope's job to teach this children latin, french and proper etiquette. But how can you teach children latin when they would rather be chasing squirrels and howling into the night. Despite having made great strides with the children Penelope soon learns that she has to have the children presentable for the Christmas ball. But it seems someone is out to sabotage her efforts.
Review: This story is a combination of Mary Poppins and A Series of Unfortunate Events. Penelope is only 15 but is wise beyond her years and very mature. I enjoy seeing her very prim and proper etiquette against her 3 very unruly children. The story is funny with the children chasing squirrels and howling. But Wood combines this humor with introductions to Latin and French words. There is also a great element of mystery in the story. Why were the children in the woods? Where did the squirrel come from at the party? And why take these children in when it seems that neither parent is too thrilled to have them. The book leaves the reader with more questions than answers but it will make you want to read the next book! The children despite their odd behavior are adorable and funny. They really try their best to please their governess and do things in their own unique way.
Reader's Annotation: Miss Penelope Lumley never thought her first governess job would include carrying for 3 children who behave more like wolves than children. How will she ever make them presentable for society?
Main Themes: orphans, mystery, governess
Read Alikes: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket, The Willoughbys Lois Lowry
Why for Tweens? This book combines mystery and wit that tweens will love. The book will also challenge their vocabulary with Penelope's over the top vocabulary.