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The Road to Ratenburg
A family of rats is forced to leave their home, so sets out to find the fabled city of Ratenburg. Along the way they outwit vicious dogs, tricky rat traps, and sharp-beaked hawks, and make some very dangerous crossings.
The rat family’s adventures test their character and grow bonds between sisters and brothers, father and uncle, mum and dad.
Narrating the tale is Spinnaker Rat, a classic Edwardian father, full of wisdom about the ways of the world, who finds himself learning more than he expected.
The rat family’s adventures test their character and grow bonds between sisters and brothers, father and uncle, mum and dad.
Narrating the tale is Spinnaker Rat, a classic Edwardian father, full of wisdom about the ways of the world, who finds himself learning more than he expected.
Unknown Binding
About the author
Joy Cowley
1,499 books103 followersCassia Joy Cowley is a New Zealand author best known for her children's fiction, including the popular series of books Mrs. Wishy-Washy.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 13, 2021
Çocuk edebiyatının usta kalemi Joy Cowley soluk kesici bir yol hikayesi anlatıyor bu defa. The Road to Ratenburg Ceren Özcan çevirisi ile önümüzdeki aylarda Uyurgezer'de..
May 22, 2023
I got this read to me when I was in year 3 or 4 (by the teacher that no one liked, but I liked her for reading this to us) and thought it was the most magical, rollicking tale in existence. Also it's an NZ icon, written by Joy Cowley and illustrated by Gavin Bishop. How this has not won awards I don't know. I bought a copy a while ago and decided to pick it up recently when I was in-between other books. It did not disappoint.
It follows the story of a family of rats (father Spinnaker and his wife Retsina, their four ratlets, Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta, and their friend Roger) travelling to the legendary Ratenburg for a new and better life. They have been told it's a very dangerous and perilous journey to make, with danger and obstacles at every turn. They're determined they will make it.
There's a big plot twist at the end, and I did remember it, though I couldn't remember all the heartwarming details. If this was ever made into a movie, which it definitely should be, it would be a tearjerker.
5 out of 5 stars. Recommend for all ages. Absolutely iconic.
It follows the story of a family of rats (father Spinnaker and his wife Retsina, their four ratlets, Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta, and their friend Roger) travelling to the legendary Ratenburg for a new and better life. They have been told it's a very dangerous and perilous journey to make, with danger and obstacles at every turn. They're determined they will make it.
There's a big plot twist at the end, and I did remember it, though I couldn't remember all the heartwarming details. If this was ever made into a movie, which it definitely should be, it would be a tearjerker.
5 out of 5 stars. Recommend for all ages. Absolutely iconic.
August 14, 2017
Amongst rats there's an ancient legend of a utopia for rat-kind. It's a place where musophobia -fear of rats - as well as ratist attitudes and outright prejudice against rats doesn't exist. 'Ratenburg' is the name of this wondrous town, created by a human being who had done away with all his own bias. The human story of the Pied Piper is quite different to that remembered by the rats who recall he was the builder of a place of bliss where all of the genus rattus were welcomed.
When the apartment block where Spinnaker lives is destroyed, he only just survives. But for the fact he was chasing Jolly Roger, an annoying rat who had stolen a crust he'd just found, his wife Retsina would have been widowed and their kids orphaned. She'd taken Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta out looking for food and was aghast to see the demolition of the block as they returned.
Remembering the legend of Ratenburg, she persuades Spinnaker to embark on the hazardous journey to this extraordinary refuge. She knows the railway rats have part of a map to Ratenburg so they head to the railway station. Jolly Roger - proclaiming himself the saviour of the family because of indirectly saving Spinnaker's life - decides to tag along.
Spinnaker is less than impressed to realise that Retsina is very familiar with the railway rats, especially their ruggedly handsome leader. But the family is allowed to view the map to Ratenburg and member is tasked with memorising particular parts of it, as well as the dangers in each region. One common thing stands out on every point of the trip: no matter where they intend to go, rats are feared and hated.
So, the journey starts - with an easy railway trip to the town of Sunsweep. Even before they reach that first waypoint, Spinnaker's tail is half-mashed. And he is not sure he'll get much further without killing Jolly Roger.
Told with an air of gentleness and warmth, this fine book explores nuances of anger, jealousy, hatred, prejudice - and ultimately family love and support - in a quiet, endearing way.
When the apartment block where Spinnaker lives is destroyed, he only just survives. But for the fact he was chasing Jolly Roger, an annoying rat who had stolen a crust he'd just found, his wife Retsina would have been widowed and their kids orphaned. She'd taken Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta out looking for food and was aghast to see the demolition of the block as they returned.
Remembering the legend of Ratenburg, she persuades Spinnaker to embark on the hazardous journey to this extraordinary refuge. She knows the railway rats have part of a map to Ratenburg so they head to the railway station. Jolly Roger - proclaiming himself the saviour of the family because of indirectly saving Spinnaker's life - decides to tag along.
Spinnaker is less than impressed to realise that Retsina is very familiar with the railway rats, especially their ruggedly handsome leader. But the family is allowed to view the map to Ratenburg and member is tasked with memorising particular parts of it, as well as the dangers in each region. One common thing stands out on every point of the trip: no matter where they intend to go, rats are feared and hated.
So, the journey starts - with an easy railway trip to the town of Sunsweep. Even before they reach that first waypoint, Spinnaker's tail is half-mashed. And he is not sure he'll get much further without killing Jolly Roger.
Told with an air of gentleness and warmth, this fine book explores nuances of anger, jealousy, hatred, prejudice - and ultimately family love and support - in a quiet, endearing way.
January 13, 2026
Ne demişler: Yolu bilmek ile o yolu yürümek, farklı şeylerdir.
June 20, 2021
I want to give 3.5 stars, because although it was an amusing story, I was very uncomfortable with the message at the end that the personal growth along the journey justifies the decision to make the journey. The end does NOT justify the means or choices, ever. You should never stake the lives of your family on a legend that has never been verified by someone you trust. It does not matter whether the legend is true or false; truth of a legend does not make it any wiser to consciously take significant explicitly known risk with others' lives. This lack of critical thinking is exactly what drives the billion-dollar scam industry in fake/poisonous health supplements and bogus medical procedures.
I shall be generous and add half a star, because the author didn't outright imply that the decision was certainly right.
I shall be generous and add half a star, because the author didn't outright imply that the decision was certainly right.
April 3, 2024
This quest-style story about a family of rats prompted weeks of map making and dramatic play in our house. It even held the attention of my two-turned-three year old despite the sparse illustrations!
I find it hard to recommend age appropriate novels for a 5yo, but this one was a total winner! The right amount of silly, easy plot, a cast of characters that make for a fun read-aloud experience, there’s a map (no need to elaborate further on that), all danger is quickly resolved and mild enough for my then 2yo, and the only language I had to edit out was the word ‘stupid’ which I cannot stand, personally. All this and it actually made me tear up at the end.
I find it hard to recommend age appropriate novels for a 5yo, but this one was a total winner! The right amount of silly, easy plot, a cast of characters that make for a fun read-aloud experience, there’s a map (no need to elaborate further on that), all danger is quickly resolved and mild enough for my then 2yo, and the only language I had to edit out was the word ‘stupid’ which I cannot stand, personally. All this and it actually made me tear up at the end.
August 31, 2021
3.5 stars really - but went for four!
A rather wonderful kids book about the search for a ratty Shangri-La, by a nuclear rat family of six plus a hanger on!
While this book does not break any new ground, it does have rather nice terns of phrase and some amusing silliness. (The literalist cat being a favourite - although I think more could have been made of that!)
Not a classic, but a great little chapter book for young readers (and me when I needed a break from more serious stuff!) SM
A rather wonderful kids book about the search for a ratty Shangri-La, by a nuclear rat family of six plus a hanger on!
While this book does not break any new ground, it does have rather nice terns of phrase and some amusing silliness. (The literalist cat being a favourite - although I think more could have been made of that!)
Not a classic, but a great little chapter book for young readers (and me when I needed a break from more serious stuff!) SM
March 21, 2017
Joy Cowley has done it again – The Road to Ratenburg is a delightful adventure story featuring a family of very engaging rats. Told by the father of the family, Spinnaker Rat, this book recounts the journey the family takes after their home is demolished. Their destination, Ratenburg, is the fabled rat city that is paradise on earth for rats. There are many perils along the way and new things to learn about the world and each other.
The rat characters are all well drawn. We get to know Spinnaker best, the ship rat, because he is the author. But his wife, Retsina (who grew up in a Greek restaurant), their children, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta, and annoying friend, Roger, all have distinctive personalities. This is primarily an adventure story but, with Spinnaker as narrator, we see the world from a rat’s perspective and his descriptions of ‘humming beans’ activities and habits add plenty of incidental humour. This book would be an excellent read-aloud from about 6 years of age, or could be read independently from about 8 years old.
The story is very well complemented by Gavin Bishop’s charming illustrations, and the production values are high. This is a sturdy paperback that will stand up well to the repeated readings it is bound to get. Given the beautiful palette Gavin has used for the cover, coloured illustrations within the book would have added to its appeal. However, it is more important to keep this book affordable for Kiwi children.
Reviewed by Penny Guy (Bookrapt)
The rat characters are all well drawn. We get to know Spinnaker best, the ship rat, because he is the author. But his wife, Retsina (who grew up in a Greek restaurant), their children, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta, and annoying friend, Roger, all have distinctive personalities. This is primarily an adventure story but, with Spinnaker as narrator, we see the world from a rat’s perspective and his descriptions of ‘humming beans’ activities and habits add plenty of incidental humour. This book would be an excellent read-aloud from about 6 years of age, or could be read independently from about 8 years old.
The story is very well complemented by Gavin Bishop’s charming illustrations, and the production values are high. This is a sturdy paperback that will stand up well to the repeated readings it is bound to get. Given the beautiful palette Gavin has used for the cover, coloured illustrations within the book would have added to its appeal. However, it is more important to keep this book affordable for Kiwi children.
Reviewed by Penny Guy (Bookrapt)
August 28, 2018
A delightful book about a family of rats seeking the promised land. Great ending.
December 30, 2018
It's a really cute and wholesome little story :)
Read
January 23, 2022loved this book when i was growing up :)
August 22, 2017
this books about how a family of rats lose their home when it was demolished and set out on an adventure to ratenburg the city of rats and they have to cross many obstacles like sun sweep lake which is filled with eels, bottomless bog, the perilous forest and the rat catching town also lastly the swing bridge.
i loved this book it was great and had lots of adventure
i loved this book it was great and had lots of adventure
July 19, 2016
Another delightful book by Joy Cowley. At some point I though...mmmm just another adventure book?... but no... wait till you reach the end....
April 1, 2017
This would make a great read aloud for a yr4-6 class. Classic quest adventure
June 15, 2018
Read this review with photos of the book and contents here:
https://readersforlife.blog/2018/06/1...
I personally think rats are disgusting, vile creatures. They are large, smelly and hard to exterminate. Some people enjoy them as pets, but I would be happy to never see one again.
According to the main character in this book, Spinnaker, (father of four ‘ratlets’ and devoted husband to Restina), I am a ‘humming bean with ratophobia!’ Right he is! Rats and humans cannot communicate, so if there was a book that could change your mind about rats, this could be it.
The Road to Ratenburg is a story about a rat family, their adventure, and how they worked together to overcome challenges. It could have been about any animal family, but the premise of rats gives their adventure a twist. Throughout the whole reading I was thinking, “I totally get the humans hating the rats, but at the same time I am actually growing to like them. I hope the humans don’t get them!” By the end of the book I adored them.
Spinnaker, Restina and their four ratlets: Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta, have lost their house to a demolition, so they are off to find a new home. They could have settled in an alley or under the train station, but they have others ideas so they decide to find the legendary city of Ratenburg. Ratenburg is a paradise for rats, founded by the Pipe Piper in a valley, deep in the mountains. Will they get there? Will they survive all the dangers and obstacles along the way?
Spinnaker is a devoted husband and father, and he is totally faithful to his family. Retsina is wise and patient, while the ratlets are loyal and helpful. They are a wonderful family and I enjoyed reading about their team spirit and commitment to each other during their adventures.
“When we are together we feel that we can survive anything. That day we stared at the wrecked building and were glad, so very glad, that we were all safe. We had each other. Our home was gone, but we would find somewhere else to live.” Page 9
The story isn’t without character development and value lessons as well. As they meet other animals, they expect prejudice, but instead find kindness and companionship. Spinnaker learns not to judge by appearances and he discovers that he is not always right. The conversations between the characters are natural and there were a few laugh-out-loud moments as well.
Joy Cowley is an excellent author and we have been reading her books for years. She has written many books for New Zealand children – from the very young to young adult novels. I am sure you and your children will really enjoy this story and I recommend it for ages eight and upwards.
The issue we have reviewed is 192 pages long, softcover with black and white illustrations by Gavin Bishop throughout.
ISBN: 9781776570751
Publisher: Gecko Press, New Zealand, 2016
https://readersforlife.blog/2018/06/1...
I personally think rats are disgusting, vile creatures. They are large, smelly and hard to exterminate. Some people enjoy them as pets, but I would be happy to never see one again.
According to the main character in this book, Spinnaker, (father of four ‘ratlets’ and devoted husband to Restina), I am a ‘humming bean with ratophobia!’ Right he is! Rats and humans cannot communicate, so if there was a book that could change your mind about rats, this could be it.
The Road to Ratenburg is a story about a rat family, their adventure, and how they worked together to overcome challenges. It could have been about any animal family, but the premise of rats gives their adventure a twist. Throughout the whole reading I was thinking, “I totally get the humans hating the rats, but at the same time I am actually growing to like them. I hope the humans don’t get them!” By the end of the book I adored them.
Spinnaker, Restina and their four ratlets: Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta, have lost their house to a demolition, so they are off to find a new home. They could have settled in an alley or under the train station, but they have others ideas so they decide to find the legendary city of Ratenburg. Ratenburg is a paradise for rats, founded by the Pipe Piper in a valley, deep in the mountains. Will they get there? Will they survive all the dangers and obstacles along the way?
Spinnaker is a devoted husband and father, and he is totally faithful to his family. Retsina is wise and patient, while the ratlets are loyal and helpful. They are a wonderful family and I enjoyed reading about their team spirit and commitment to each other during their adventures.
“When we are together we feel that we can survive anything. That day we stared at the wrecked building and were glad, so very glad, that we were all safe. We had each other. Our home was gone, but we would find somewhere else to live.” Page 9
The story isn’t without character development and value lessons as well. As they meet other animals, they expect prejudice, but instead find kindness and companionship. Spinnaker learns not to judge by appearances and he discovers that he is not always right. The conversations between the characters are natural and there were a few laugh-out-loud moments as well.
Joy Cowley is an excellent author and we have been reading her books for years. She has written many books for New Zealand children – from the very young to young adult novels. I am sure you and your children will really enjoy this story and I recommend it for ages eight and upwards.
The issue we have reviewed is 192 pages long, softcover with black and white illustrations by Gavin Bishop throughout.
ISBN: 9781776570751
Publisher: Gecko Press, New Zealand, 2016
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews