When Fran, Tom, Maddy and Gilbert the dog stay with Professor George Kirrin for the holidays, they soon find themselves caught up in a robbery of a top-secret treasure map. Professor George will have to tell them about an old case of the Famous Five if they're ever going to catch the thief and rescue the forgotten treasure...
The Famous Five by Enid Blyton was one of Chris Smith's favourite series as a child. Now, this bestselling author weaves the action, adventure and danger of this thrilling and exciting world into a brand-new story, perfect for every generation of readers. Join the adventure!
Can the new Famous Five catch the thief and find the forgotten treasure before it's too late? Join the original Famous Five and a new group of children in this exciting new adventure by bestselling author Chris Smith, inspired by Enid Blyton.
There are several generations who grew up on Enid Blyton; she and Roald Dahl were staples in every school library, and we all read about midnight feasts and dastardly villains with bated breath. Several authors have attempted to carry on her various series - Dame Jacqueline Wilson has an ongoing series set in the Faraway Tree, and there's a whole new series of Malory Towers. But this marks the first time anyone has touched Enid's flagship series, the Famous Five.
The story is split over two time periods, one current and one back in the Famous Five days. Language and behaviour in those sections are appropriate to the way the Five spoke and behaved, which is occasionally a problem in modern continuations! We learn a little about the fates of Dick, Anne and George, but nothing about Julian - perhaps Chris is saving that for the next book in the series! There is an ending to the story here, it's not a cliffhanger, but there's definitely room for the story to continue.
For those of us who like classic style adventures, with a touch of modern conveniences, this is one for you. Buy it to introduce your kids to the Famous Five, then surprise them with the original 21 volumes! (And when you're reading the originals, let me know - George had a sailboat, right? This thinks she had a motor boat!)
Book Recommendation: For another read with a touch of historical flavour, try The Sackville Street Caper by Alan Nolan. Set during the childhood of Bram Stoker, when he lived in Dublin, the book and its sequels feature him teaming up with Molly Malone to solve crimes and have run ins with other historical figures!
Movie recommendation: For a more modern take, Nancy Drew (the 2007 film) also revolves around a young detective uncovering mysteries, much like the new Famous Five's quest to find treasure and catch a thief. It’s light-hearted but full of intrigue, perfect for fans of both the book and the spirit of adventure.
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