Product Description

Book Two in the breathtakingly original Deptford Mice trilogy.

Audrey and Arthur have escaped the horrors of Jupiter's lair and sought refuge in the countryside with their apparently mad friend Madam Akkikuyu. But once again they are faced with terrifying evil as they become embroiled in a series of horrible murders.

As the story unfolds, it transpires that Madam Akkikuyu is not, in fact, mad ... she is haunted by the unquiet spirit of Jupiter, evil lord of the rats ...

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #290829 in Books
• Published on: 2006-06-01
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 304 pages

Review

'Jarvis is a great writer, in command of his intricate plotting.'

'Jarvis is a real story teller ...'

About the Author
Robin Jarvis studied graphic design in Newcastle and then worked in television and advertising making model monsters and puppets. He has been a full-time writer and illustrator for some time, and has a large following among children and adults. Robin`s books are consistent best-sellers and he has won several awards for his work. The Dark Portal was runner-up for the Smarties Prize in 1989.

Customer Reviews

Very very good.
In a world thats gone a bit crazy over childrens/teenage fiction it always amazes me that these books are not far better known. This series is right up there with the "His Dark Materials" trilogy, and is without doubt more interesting than Harry Potter (although understandably less popular and satisfying due to it's darker tone). I first read these books in late primary school, so I would have been around 11 or so. I've just re-read them for what must be about the twentieth time and they are still just as brilliant as the first time. As one of the other reviewers said, if you have a good imagination these stories will be vividly brought to life in your head, the authors occasional hand drawn illustrations really help you to visualise the trials of the Deptford Mice.

If you (or your children) have enjoyed books by Phillip Pullman, JK Rowling or JRR Tolkein then I would thouroughly recommend giving this trilogy (and the associated Deptford Histories trilogy) a read, you will not be disappointed.

Come on Amazon
I have read, and very much enjoyed it, however, for those who have not read it, the synopsis by Amazon is effectively a spoiler. It tells the reason for Akikkuyus madness for crying out loud, and also by mentioning Jupiters spirit they give the game away of the first part. I expect this review will be snubbed by Amazon, as almost 50% of those I write seem to get lost in the system, even though they breach none of the rules stipulated. At the very least I hope Amazon re-write this synopsis to try so as not to spoil the enjoyment of everyone considering buying it.

Probably the best collection I ever read...
I read the Deptford Mice Trilogy first when I was 11 years old. They captivated me then, and did so again just recently when I found my old copies and read them again. This is probably one of the most amazing book sets I read as a child, one that held my attention and stirred my imagination. The fact that I enjoyed them again as an adult pays tribute to Robin Jarvis and his creative genius. A well written story is hard to come by and this collection rides at the top of the best book list. I recommend this book to anyone with an imagination. Enjoy.