FOOTSTEPS

by Leon Garfield ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 1, 1980

It's a pleasure to be caught in the web of Mr. Garfield, who spins words and plots and conceits with such dash and agility that one is whisked through the narrow streets and crannies of unsavory 18th-century London. This time we accompany twelve-year-old William Jones, a runaway fresh from the country, as he searches out his just-deceased father's wronged business partner and possible treasure in order to stop the late Mr. Jones' ghostly, pacing footsteps and prove William's own honesty to a grim accusing uncle. In Garfield's hands a sneering, petty adventurer becomes William's hate-crazed pursuer and then a redeemed, repentant son. An envious, mercenary dwarf becomes William's self-serving protector, and then his friend; and a menacing street tough, whose only name is Shot-in-the-Head, becomes his life-saver and then his adopted brother. The treasure is found and relinquished; the partner, said to be dead, turns up living; William's house goes up in flames, his father's ghost is put to rest; and William proves himself a brave and magnanimous hero before the corking tale reaches its satisfactory conclusion.

Pub Date: Oct. 1, 1980

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Delacorte

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1980

Categories: FICTION