We loved reading about this family of two sisters, two brothers, dad, and Cuffy who has looked after the family since their mum died. 
 We were sent a different book than the one we had paid for ( was refunded and told to keep the book) sadly this copy had a hideous cover, even worse than the one pictured here ( why do they feel the need to replace a beautiful old cover with something new but much worse? it happens all the time) which also meant it had no illustrations. 
 After a page or two we really loved this book, we so enjoyed the different characters and how separate adventures happened in each chapter, each character taking their turn to enjoy the pooled allowance to spend in their own way. We did find it amusing that nail varnish had been invented but not nail varnish remover ! How funny, everyone seemed to have an extreme reaction to nail varnish and hair cuts which was a lovely snapshot of what was acceptable at that time! 
 My daughter wondered whether they got a lot of pocket money or if things were cheaper in those days, but given they were spending 3 and a half lots of pocket money each week, we were suprised that they could afford an opera ticket, a circus trip and huge amount of food or a haircut and manicure! But practicalities aside this was a lovely theme for the book and gave the opportunity for them each to take the lead role in their chapter. 
 Despite our copy not having the author's illustrations we so enjoyed the story, we really enjoyed Mrs Oliphant's story of being kiddnapped by gypsies, Rush's trip to the opera, finding a homeless dog, and the end trip to a lighthouse was wonderful. I want to become a Melendy tomorrow please! We are waiting for the next book to arrive, hopefully tomorrow.