Dracula in Sunlight
Nine stories set in south-east London vividly recount episodes from the home and school lives of the mixed race Satchwell children. Kath is the family storyteller, and her love of story is the theme underlying their adventures. Though the twin brother and younger sister who form her bedtime audience are sometimes resentful of her gift, a shared passion for make-believe involves them in the games, dreams and fantasies which surround a poignantly real family mystery at the heart of the book. The children's exploits are related through Kath in a voice which makes friendly and entertaining prose. The overall tone is lighthearted, but moments of anguish, pathos and insecurity are honestly conveyed. Highly recommended for independent readers of all ages.