From Publishers Weekly
The first book in a four-volume series introduces the Fortune family, whose gypsy-like existence takes them from Australia to their father's childhood home in New Zealand. Greeted by throngs of Fortunes, who share a fondness for songs about prunes and speaking in rhymes, middle-child Pete tries to accept the idea that small-town Fairfield might become a real home. But his cousin Tracey, "a hard case," haunts his dreams and threatens his chances of fitting in with his newly met relatives. Eager to join "the Good Fortunes Gang" run by the machiavellian Tracey and two other cousins, Pete must spend a night in a graveyard in order to prove he has the stuff of real Fortunes. The much-acclaimed author doesn't miss a beat. Her fluid writing style blends wonderful snatches of humor with a perceptive understanding of what it means to be part of an eccentric family. Because this first series installment is just as original and witty as the author's many other titles, it seems the fate of the Fortunes will be well worth watching. Ages 8-11.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 3-5-- Mahy introduces an unusual family in this readable, appealing, and well-written book, the first in a series of four. Pete Fortune, 10, his parents, his punky teenaged brother, and baby sister move from Australia to his father's childhood home in New Zealand. At a family reunion, Pete seeks out his cousins hiding in the woods; they challenge him to sleep in a graveyard in order to be considered a "real Fortune." He passes their test, even having to sleep next to a stone with his own name and age on it. The book concludes with Pete feeling at home, and just beginning to sort out who's who in his eccentric extended family. Mahy knows exactly how to construct a book of this type, and does it so well she makes it look easy. Her characters are well defined and interesting, and the story is told so that each chapter ends with readers wanting to turn the page. In addition, the prose contains graceful descriptive touches and vivid images that will stay with readers who notice more than plot. Occasional line drawings break up the text. All in all, this is an offering that's easy to booktalk, delightful to read. --Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
