Promise of the Rainbow

by Rosalie K. Fry, Robin Jacques (Illustrator)

In the meadow overlooking a village in Wales a group of children find a deserted cottage near a manor. They set to work to make a playhouse from the ruins and discover that it is an abandoned church.

Genres: Childrens

127 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1965

About the author

Rosalie K. Fry was born on Vancouver Island. She made her home in Swansea, South Wales. During World War II she was stationed in the Orkney Islands, where she was employed as a Cypher Officer in the Women’s Royal Service. She wrote many stories and executed many drawings for a variety of children’s magazines in Great Britain. She was also known as a maker of children’s toys.

Reviews

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set in a small Welsh village, this short novel relates the story of six children - two Anglican, two Roman Catholic, and two Methodist - who work together to restore a dilapidated old chapel in the woods.

This book reminded me in many ways of Rumer Godden's wonderful children's title, The Kitchen Madonna , with its emphasis on respect for the beliefs of others, and its portrayal of the power of friendship to overcome religious divisions. These themes are most welcome, particularly as Fry avoids using a didactic tone, and presents a heartwarming story that should keep young readers engaged. The Taffy plot-line, in particular, should please animal-loving children who've dreamed of owning a pony.

Like two of the author's other books, Snowed Up and Whistler in the Mist , this was illustrated by Robin Jacques.