Cirrus@Austlit

'The stories take place in a rural district at an unspecified time. The colloquial use of wicked is recent, but the lifestyle and some vocabulary has the feel of previous generations. The settings cover the most significant locations in a child's world: home, school, the local swimming spot. Paddy's concerns and interests are shared by many children overcoming fears without losing face; alternately resenting an older siblings authority and appreciating his helpful understanding; winning at marbles and football; losing your school bag; taking risks for dares and facing the consequences of disobedience. Urban children would particularly enjoy Paddys experiences in a setting where the young characters have so much independence and scope for pushing the boundaries of safe, acceptable behaviour.'--Provided by publisher.