The Pirates’ Treasure

In this third adventure, mice couple Nutmeg and Tumtum find themselves in frightening surroundings and at the mercy of some very fierce pirate Rats. The creature responsible for their terrible predicament is their friend and neighbour General Marchmouse. His thirst for glory, heroic deeds and swashbuckling adventure gets them into all sorts of trouble, not at all what Nutmeg had in mind when she persuaded Tumtum to join her in watching over the Mildew children in their overnight camping expedition.

The animal folk provide wonderful characterisation. Each creature is distinctive and beautifully observed, and their interaction drives the plot, creating a story packed with excitement and gentle humour. Much of the story’s charm lies in the microcosmic picture it recreates of a bygone era in which social hierarchy and good manners are the dominant values.