THE DARLING BOYS

by M.C. Helldorfer ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 30, 1992

A feminist slant on a traditional ballad or tale, ""Get Up and Bar the Door"": The baker's widow dotes on her sons, Swindle and Gyp, but--while she and their hard-working sister Vi take loaves to market--the two steal gold from the family pot and bicker until one declares that whoever speaks first must lock the door. Stubbornly, neither budges--even when a mysteriously disguised thief makes off with their hoard. It's Vi, who shares the gold with her mother and goes off to start her own shop. Though the battling brothers are reminiscent of Yorinks' Oh, Brother (1989), they don't have as much satirical verve; still, the story is entertainingly told, and cheerful Vi's triumph is satisfying. Halsey presents an appealing, orderly setting that makes an amusing foil for the boys' roguery. A good choice for sharing with a group.

Pub Date: Sept. 30, 1992

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 32

Publisher: Bradbury

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1992

Categories: CHILDREN'S