WELCOME, STANTZA

Dark Horse on the Moss (1948) was a mystery for the 12-15 group, and it, too, dealt with orphans. This- for younger readers- is a hardy, sympathetic story of Greek orphans who come to England. High in the mountain orphanage Chrysantza who is about ten is given charge of small Nicky and Vicky, who are Sando's brother and sister. Sando is older and a venturesome boy not meant to be a nursemaid. When an English family, the Ruthvens, adopt them all, the new life means new happiness for the four children. But in England, Santaza begins to think that the Ruthvens really only wanted Nicky, Vicky and Sando. There is nearly a breakdown, but when Sando's parents are found and the Ruthven's want to keep Santza for their own, all's well. Understanding.