The Witch of Clatteringshaws (The Wolves of Willoughby Chase)

by JoanAiken (Author)

• Used

  Hardcover
  2005

  $7.01

  Malise, the Witch of Clatteringshaws lives in a disused Ladies Convenience at the end of a coach park in Caledonia overlooking Loch Grieve (inhabited by Hobyahs and a monster). In the prologue to the story, Malise discovers a newborn infant in the rubbish bin in the coach park. Down in London Simon Battersea has inherited the throne of England and although accompanied by his friend Dido he is not happy with his lot. On hearing of other possible claimants to the throne and that the Witch may be able to help her, Dido departs to Scotland to follow the clues. Meanwhile England is invaded by the Saxon Wends and Simon also goes northwards with his army; all participants being reluctant to fight, the situation is resolved by a game of Hnefatefl between Simon and the Wendish leader (Simon wins). Everyone meets up in Clatteringshaws. Dido is successful in her hunt for a legitimate heir - Piers Crackenthorpe (the 'Woodlouse' thought to be drowned in the moat of Fogrum Hall in Midwinter Nightingale) and Simon hands over the realm with relief. Simon and Dido are free to live their own lives as they wish.

• Used

  Paperback
  2006

  $12.41

  The Witch of Clatteringshaws lives in Scotland in a disused Ladies Convenience - not at all convenient, the plumbing having long been smashed. In London, Simon Battersea, unhappily settled on the throne of England, is forced to live in St Jame's Palace with his good friend, Dido Twite. Never has Joan Aiken's wild imagination been more in evidence as Dido, travelling north to investigate a false claimant to the throne, is confronted by abandoned children, monsters and murderers, while Simon has to defend his country against invading Wends. Their instinct to go north is a good one for it is the witch, Malise, who provides the key to everyone's troubles in a wonderfully swift and extravagant climax. A tremendous read and a truly satisfying ending to the Dido and Simon saga.