Harvey Angell

From Publishers Weekly There's something about Harvey Angell. And young orphan Henry is on his way to finding out what that something is, in British author Hendry's Whitbread-winning novel, the first in a trilogy. When Harvey rents the attic room at 131 Ballantyre Road--home to Henry and his decidedly crabby and emotionally closed Aunt Agatha--Harvey pretty much turns everything upside down. He charms the other boarders and even Aunt Agatha with his good manners, beaming smile and fine flute playing. But much mystery surrounds him, especially his job, working with "circuits" and "connections" and "energy fields." Before long, Henry discovers that Harvey's connections have nothing to do with electricity but, rather, connecting the energy of the living with that of their deceased loved ones. As her characters blossom through the power of music, poetry and kindness, Hendry strikes several strong emotional notes, but never gets maudlin. Her imagery creates lyrical pictures ("The plumpness, the prettiness, the gentleness and happiness had dropped off her like leaves at the end of summer and left her gaunt and stark as a winter tree," Henry thinks, when comparing his aunt today with photos of her as a bride and young mother). Although a bit of the spirit of Harry Potter bubbles up now and again, this swift-moving story stands apart as an entertaining, thought-provoking read for fans of whimsical fantasy. Ages 8-up. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc. From School Library Journal Gr 4-6-Harvey Angell, a 20th-century version of Mary Poppins, descends upon a loveless home in which an orphaned lad named Henry lives with his stingy Aunt Agatha and a group of unhappy boarders. By harnessing the energy in the house (using his Connecting Kit), Harvey Angell strives to bring life back to the residence and its inhabitants. Henry suspects that the newcomer is no ordinary man and soon becomes Harvey's accomplice in the efforts to make 131 Ballantyre Road a "proper home." This novel, a delicious mixture of mystery and fantasy, is fast paced and the language is delightfully expressive. Readers will feel the characters' despair slowly drain away as the novel progresses. The poignant plot will have young readers empathizing with all of these unhappy souls and cheering when Harvey accomplishes his mission. This enjoyable story has something for everyone.