Treasures for Cousin Crystal; Paper Faces

Both novels explore the relationships between parents and children very convincingly from the youngsters' point of view. In each one the parents' actions are well-meaning by their own, adult, terms but they demand too much understanding by their offspring for the children to be able to cope.

The prospect of an exciting TV job for their mother and a problem at work for their father eventually leads Ollie, Jessica and Harry to an over-pampered rich, distant relative, who treats them in much the same way as she spoils her bad-tempered canine. Somehow the trio manage to get the best they can out of the situation and not feel totally like left luggage.

The second book has the historical perspective of London at the end of the second world war where a woefully scatty, albeit loving, young mother tries to make the best of things for herself and her young daughter whilst she waits for her husband's demob. Dot does not react well to change; unfortunatley that's all Gloria, her mum, seems to be able to offer. Stability only comes fleetingly with a stay in the country and then hospital. Finally, there is the biggest change of all, the return of her unknown father.

Both books are very well written and deserve to be stocked.