'Classic Noel Streatfeild at her warm-hearted best. I absolutely loved it' Hilary McKay, author of THE SKYLARKS' WAR'Such rewarding reading' Daily TelegraphIn this captivating new collection, there are stories for every reader to enjoy: unforgettable holidays and unlikely friendships, crime-solving adventures and dancers in the spotlight for the very first time. Originally written for annuals and magazines, these newly discovered stories are collected here for the first time and will be treasured by Noel Streatfeild fans of all ages.Featuring beautiful illustrations by PETER BAILEYStories include: The Plain One Devon MettleChicken for SupperFlag's CircusThe SecretCoralieOrdinary Me Cows Eat FlowersAndrew's TroutThe Old FoolLet's Go CoachingHowardThe Quiet HolidayRobertaGreen Silk
Noel Streatfeild was born in Sussex in 1895 and was one of three sisters. After working in munitions factories and canteens for the armed forces when the First World War broke out, Noel followed her dream of being on stage and went to RADA where she became a professional actress.She began writing children's books in 1931 and Ballet Shoes was published in 1936. She quickly became one of the most popular authors of her day. She was one of the first winners of the Carnegie Medal and was awarded an OBE in 1983.
An enchanting collection, full of wonderful old friends, (the Bell family, the Fossils' darling Doctors Smith and Jakes, Harriet and Lalla!) Classic Noel Streatfeild at her warm-hearted best. I absolutely loved it