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The Beasts of Clawstone Castle
When their parents go to America for the summer, Madlyn and Rollo are sent to their great-aunt Emily and great-uncle George at Clawstone Castle, home of the legendary and mysterious Wild White Cattle of Clawstone Park. But times are hard at Clawstone, as the fancier castle down the road attracts all the tourist traffic. Determined to save the castle and the herd, Madlyn and Rollo audition a cast of ghosts to add some thrills to the Clawstone tours, and soon visitors are pouring through the gates. But just when things are looking up, the ghosts and children find themselves facing a great mystery, and some very sinister enemies. Will Madlyn, Rollo, and their ghostly friends find a way to save the day?
243 pages, Hardcover
First published May 4, 2005
22 people are currently reading
821 people want to read
About the author
Eva Ibbotson
79 books2,359 followersEva Ibbotson (Maria Charlotte Michelle Wiesner) was a novelist specializing in romance and children's fantasy.
She was born in Vienna, Austria, in 1925. When Hitler appeared, her family moved to England. She attended Bedford College, graduating in 1945; Cambridge University from 1946-47; and the University of Durham, graduating with a diploma in education in 1965. Eva had intended to be a physiologist but was put off by animal testing. Instead, she married and raised a family, returning to school to become a teacher in the 1960s. They have three sons and a daughter.
Eva began writing with the television drama “Linda Came Today” in 1965. Ten years later, she published her first novel, “The Great Ghost Rescue”. Eva has written numerous books including “The Secret Of Platform 13”, “Journey To The River Sea”, “Which Witch?”, “Island Of The Aunts”, and “Dial-A-Ghost”. She won the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize for “Journey To The River Sea” and has been a runner up for many of major awards for British children's literature.
Her books are imaginative and humorous and most of them feature magical creatures and places, despite that she disliked thinking about them. She created the characters because she wanted to decrease her readers' fear of such things.
Some of the books, particularly “Journey To The River Sea”, reflect Eva's love of nature. Eva wrote this book in honour of her husband (who had died before), a naturalist. The book had been in her head for years.
Eva said she dislikes "financial greed and a lust for power" and often creates antagonists in her books who have these characteristics. Some have been struck by the similarity of “Platform 9 3/4” in J.K. Rowling's books to Eva's “The Secret Of Platform 13”, which came out three years before the first Harry Potter book.
Her love of Austria is evident in works such as “The Star Of Kazan” and “A Song For Summer”. These books, set in the Austrian countryside, display the author's love for all things natural.
She was born in Vienna, Austria, in 1925. When Hitler appeared, her family moved to England. She attended Bedford College, graduating in 1945; Cambridge University from 1946-47; and the University of Durham, graduating with a diploma in education in 1965. Eva had intended to be a physiologist but was put off by animal testing. Instead, she married and raised a family, returning to school to become a teacher in the 1960s. They have three sons and a daughter.
Eva began writing with the television drama “Linda Came Today” in 1965. Ten years later, she published her first novel, “The Great Ghost Rescue”. Eva has written numerous books including “The Secret Of Platform 13”, “Journey To The River Sea”, “Which Witch?”, “Island Of The Aunts”, and “Dial-A-Ghost”. She won the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize for “Journey To The River Sea” and has been a runner up for many of major awards for British children's literature.
Her books are imaginative and humorous and most of them feature magical creatures and places, despite that she disliked thinking about them. She created the characters because she wanted to decrease her readers' fear of such things.
Some of the books, particularly “Journey To The River Sea”, reflect Eva's love of nature. Eva wrote this book in honour of her husband (who had died before), a naturalist. The book had been in her head for years.
Eva said she dislikes "financial greed and a lust for power" and often creates antagonists in her books who have these characteristics. Some have been struck by the similarity of “Platform 9 3/4” in J.K. Rowling's books to Eva's “The Secret Of Platform 13”, which came out three years before the first Harry Potter book.
Her love of Austria is evident in works such as “The Star Of Kazan” and “A Song For Summer”. These books, set in the Austrian countryside, display the author's love for all things natural.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
February 24, 2022
So yes, there is certainly quite much that is enjoyable and engaging with regard to Eva Ibbotson's The Beasts of Clawstone Castle (or at least with parts of the author's presented text). For while the general premise of a decrepit and crumbling castle in desperate need of some major TLC (and innovative ideas on how to attract visitors) might well be a bit repetitive (and something that often does seem to appear as a theme in children's literature), how Clawstone Castle is then actually turned into rather a major tourist attraction, this is delightfully and engagingly penned by Eva Ibbotson (since in my opinion many children do tend to enjoy and appreciate fun and not too overtly creepy ghost stories and having Madlyn, Rollo and of course also ghostly Cousin Howard hire a group of homeless spirits to spice up the atmosphere of Clawstone Castle to attract attention and a reputation of being one of the most haunted castles of Great Britain has certainly made the first half of The Beasts of Clawstone Castle a totally and absolutely fun and sweetly engaging reading experience, and indeed, I was originally also rather thinking of considering The Beasts of Clawstone Castle with a very solid and shining four star ranking).
However, as much as I have enjoyed reading about Madlyn, Rollo and their extended family (and of course also about the hired ghosts and Claswstone Castle's special herd of white cattle), I equally and sadly have to say that the entire scenario of the mad scientist Dr. Manners (with his horrible experiments on animals), the abduction of the white cattle, and yes, actually and in fact pretty much the whole second half of The Beasts of Clawstone Castle, I have found much too implausible and with too much stereotyping of the nasties, of the main villains (who are all, from Lord Trembellow and his daughter, to the mad scientist Dr. Manners one-sidedly nasty and totally flat to the extreme and as such also incredibly tedious for and to me as a reader and especially so as an adult, as an older reader). Combined with the fact that it also makes absolutely no logical sense that Madlyn's Cousin George would simply accept the verdict of the "fake" ministry veterinarians about his prized and precious herd of pure white cattle being diseased and needing to be euthanised (for in my opinion, any cattle owner or at least any reasonable cattle owner would both research the disease the cattle supposedly have and also immediately contact the ministry to make sure everything is comme il faut), for me, I really have not at all enjoyed the second half The Beasts of Clawstone Castle with its unreasonable assumptions and with its all too one-sided villains. And truly, the only reason my ranking for The Beasts of Clawstone Castleis still three and not two stars is that for the intended audience, for middle grade readers from about the age of eight to eleven, the issues I have noticed as an adult might perhaps not be as problematic as they have been for me (although personally speaking, even as a middle grade reader, I would definitely have thought the villains of The Beasts of Clawstone Castle as much too stereotypically bad, as too cardboard flat and much much too tediously rendered).
However, as much as I have enjoyed reading about Madlyn, Rollo and their extended family (and of course also about the hired ghosts and Claswstone Castle's special herd of white cattle), I equally and sadly have to say that the entire scenario of the mad scientist Dr. Manners (with his horrible experiments on animals), the abduction of the white cattle, and yes, actually and in fact pretty much the whole second half of The Beasts of Clawstone Castle, I have found much too implausible and with too much stereotyping of the nasties, of the main villains (who are all, from Lord Trembellow and his daughter, to the mad scientist Dr. Manners one-sidedly nasty and totally flat to the extreme and as such also incredibly tedious for and to me as a reader and especially so as an adult, as an older reader). Combined with the fact that it also makes absolutely no logical sense that Madlyn's Cousin George would simply accept the verdict of the "fake" ministry veterinarians about his prized and precious herd of pure white cattle being diseased and needing to be euthanised (for in my opinion, any cattle owner or at least any reasonable cattle owner would both research the disease the cattle supposedly have and also immediately contact the ministry to make sure everything is comme il faut), for me, I really have not at all enjoyed the second half The Beasts of Clawstone Castle with its unreasonable assumptions and with its all too one-sided villains. And truly, the only reason my ranking for The Beasts of Clawstone Castleis still three and not two stars is that for the intended audience, for middle grade readers from about the age of eight to eleven, the issues I have noticed as an adult might perhaps not be as problematic as they have been for me (although personally speaking, even as a middle grade reader, I would definitely have thought the villains of The Beasts of Clawstone Castle as much too stereotypically bad, as too cardboard flat and much much too tediously rendered).
July 25, 2012
There are books for children that can be read by children and children only – for the author is using some kind of weird writing style that he or she believes is how kids talk and think.
Fortunately, “the Beasts of Clawstone Castle” is not one of those books. The writing is beautiful and lovely, the characters are enjoyable in their own eccentric way.
This book can be read by adults as well, if they fancy things like “Coraline” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. It was a quick and enjoyable read for me. Usually I like to mention in my reviews what I think the book is about (the moral of the story, if you want) but in this book there is a conclusion at the end and I don’t want to spoil things; besides, it’s the way that leads to that moral which is far more interesting.
What I really liked was the way how the world of this book was painted, the characters were so alive (yes, the ghosts as well, hahaha); every side character was well described without drifting too far away from the main story.
It’s the kind of story that touches you deep inside and very original in it’s own way. It’s a story about ghosts but by no means an ordinary ghost story.
Fortunately, “the Beasts of Clawstone Castle” is not one of those books. The writing is beautiful and lovely, the characters are enjoyable in their own eccentric way.
This book can be read by adults as well, if they fancy things like “Coraline” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. It was a quick and enjoyable read for me. Usually I like to mention in my reviews what I think the book is about (the moral of the story, if you want) but in this book there is a conclusion at the end and I don’t want to spoil things; besides, it’s the way that leads to that moral which is far more interesting.
What I really liked was the way how the world of this book was painted, the characters were so alive (yes, the ghosts as well, hahaha); every side character was well described without drifting too far away from the main story.
It’s the kind of story that touches you deep inside and very original in it’s own way. It’s a story about ghosts but by no means an ordinary ghost story.
October 8, 2018
3.5 stars
December 11, 2014
Mr. Hamilton gets an offer from an American college to spend four months in New York and they offer him enough money to come out of their financial problems so while Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton stay in New York, the children Madlyn, 11, and Rollo, 9, are sent to stay with their Great-Uncle George at his "Castle Clawstone" set in the Scottish Highlands along with Great-Aunt Emily and no-longer-living Cousin Howard. They soon learn the castle's financial troubles; it must attract more paying visitors to maintain its legendary herd of Wild White cattle. Then they must compete with the notorious Trembellows and their superlative ideas. The children decide the castle needs some chills and thrills and have auditions with ghosts to find the best ghosts to scare visitors to complete their plan to turn the castle into a haunted tourist attraction.
One thing about Eva Ibbotson’s ghosts is that they are often laugh-out-loud funny, always amazingly inventive and nutty. The ghosts in the castle includes: the Bloodstained Bride, a one-eyed skeleton, a sawn-in-half circus girl, a pair of hairy Scottish feet without a body and more. Soon the money is rolling in but their neighbours, Trembellows, has very evil plans for the cattle, and it will take every effort by the siblings and their new alllies to fight back. I highly recommend! Ibbotson's ghosts are the best.
One thing about Eva Ibbotson’s ghosts is that they are often laugh-out-loud funny, always amazingly inventive and nutty. The ghosts in the castle includes: the Bloodstained Bride, a one-eyed skeleton, a sawn-in-half circus girl, a pair of hairy Scottish feet without a body and more. Soon the money is rolling in but their neighbours, Trembellows, has very evil plans for the cattle, and it will take every effort by the siblings and their new alllies to fight back. I highly recommend! Ibbotson's ghosts are the best.
September 15, 2013
Great tale for kids who don't mind a little blood. I loved the witty writing and pace of the story, but, unfortunately, I had to stop reading due to unexpected content issues. Too sad to keep reading.
SPOILER ALERT
I thought the animal experiments were SO sad and really didn't see that coming. The lab and everything was described so much that I couldn't get through that part. Way too sad for me.
SPOILER ALERT
I thought the animal experiments were SO sad and really didn't see that coming. The lab and everything was described so much that I couldn't get through that part. Way too sad for me.
December 21, 2007
An interesting read -- I'm a little surprised it was in the children's section of my library. It really does get quite gruesome in places, and some of the scenes in a scientific laboratory that experimented with animals were truly sickening. There was some ghoulish humor, and plot twists and turns that seemed to never end. OK for older kids and fun for grown-ups.
November 6, 2014
A charming, funny and rather dark tale about the importance of being kind - whether the person you're being kind to happens to be a sacred cow, a child or a bloodstained ghost. Delightful stuff.
December 18, 2025
This is a story about two youngsters who go to stay for a few months with two elderly relatives in a run-down English castle up near the Scottish borders, and about how they use inner resources and personal initiative to right wrongs.
It’s also about beings out of history, legend and folk traditions, and how in a world with new technology the power of the old is more than equal to the lure of power and money. It’s a perennial theme of course, and no less effective for being retold.
And, in the way that Ibbotson seemed to enjoy doing with her writing for younger readers, there’s so much detail that at first seems unconnected; but her skill was to finally bring all the loose strands together, tie them up in a satisfying fashion and even add a pretty bow in the promise of a sequel!
Madlyn and Rollo Hamilton, having been packed off to stay for a couple or so months with an aged uncle, his lovely but dotty sister and a rather strange cousin, find the dilapidated castle in a parlous state, close to financial disaster. Being the outgoing one, Madlyn proactively tries to find ways to reverse the decline in visitor numbers while introvert Rollo – whose passion is animals – is fascinated by Clawstone Castle’s ancient breed of horned auroch-like white cattle.
With the help of young Ned in Clawstone village and Cousin Howard the pair rustle up some suitable ghosts to haunt the castle in order to increase visitors, with mixed results: one of the outcomes is that the nouveau-riche owner of Trembellow Towers, a nearby mock Gothic edifice, decides to wipe out the opposition by nefarious means. And then some men from a government ministry declare the cattle are infected and have to be slaughtered.
I wasn’t initially sure how to take this: it seemed like another tame children’s fiction mining well-used tropes of ghostly goings-on with jokey names; but luckily I was wrong. For this was as much dark and ghastly as comic and ghostly, and names like Clawstone, Blackscar and Trembellow are no more silly than genuine placenames can be.
Also there’s genuine jeopardy aplenty: for instance, with the UK’s foot-and-mouth outbreak in cattle during 2001 strong in the memory, the prospect of the ancient Clawstone breed cattle of cattle being wiped out puts a real dampener on proceedings. Oh, and did I forget to mention mad scientists and clandestine immigrants? And banshees?
Moreover, despite the cover designs of different editions aiming to appeal to younger readers, Ibbotson’s story is often regarded as a crossover novel: features like the humour and the ghosts speaking to youthful imaginations, and political undercurrents and more obscure lore registering with some adults.
For example, the Clawstone cattle were obviously inspired by the real-life Chillingham wild cattle from Ibbotson’s Northumberland, but I’m also aware that white creatures with reddish ears – dogs, say, as well as cattle – are traditionally associated with faërie. Ibbotson even obliquely brings in the odd mythical or extinct creature such as unicorn and dodo, along with real-life beasts like narwhals and skinks, which might whet the interest of the curious student. Current affairs also form an element in the story, with refugees from central Europe seeking safety (as Ibbotson did herself in childhood, escaping from Nazi Germany), along with green issues – such as the unrestrained extraction of gravel – working hand in glove with commercial sabotage.
Yet if there seems a lot to cram into what is essentially a children’s book, with the general assumption that one shouldn’t expect too much of this genre of fiction, then I’m conscious that this was certainly not a barrier to the popularity of Ibbotson’s close contemporary Joan Aiken, born just a year earlier; so there was no real reason why that should be the case here.
Luckily a book like this doesn’t ultimately rely on how complex or simple the plot is. Madlyn and Rollo in fact are recognisably attractive yet very different protagonists, ready to form unlikely partnerships with their relatives, with Ned and the other villagers, and even with the ghosts – some of whose stories were actually inspired by Chillingham Castle’s reputed spectres. And quite apart from the downfall of villains what one hopes for is that the main characters whom we admire win through in the end despite all adversity. And adversity there will certainly be!
It’s also about beings out of history, legend and folk traditions, and how in a world with new technology the power of the old is more than equal to the lure of power and money. It’s a perennial theme of course, and no less effective for being retold.
And, in the way that Ibbotson seemed to enjoy doing with her writing for younger readers, there’s so much detail that at first seems unconnected; but her skill was to finally bring all the loose strands together, tie them up in a satisfying fashion and even add a pretty bow in the promise of a sequel!
Madlyn and Rollo Hamilton, having been packed off to stay for a couple or so months with an aged uncle, his lovely but dotty sister and a rather strange cousin, find the dilapidated castle in a parlous state, close to financial disaster. Being the outgoing one, Madlyn proactively tries to find ways to reverse the decline in visitor numbers while introvert Rollo – whose passion is animals – is fascinated by Clawstone Castle’s ancient breed of horned auroch-like white cattle.
With the help of young Ned in Clawstone village and Cousin Howard the pair rustle up some suitable ghosts to haunt the castle in order to increase visitors, with mixed results: one of the outcomes is that the nouveau-riche owner of Trembellow Towers, a nearby mock Gothic edifice, decides to wipe out the opposition by nefarious means. And then some men from a government ministry declare the cattle are infected and have to be slaughtered.
I wasn’t initially sure how to take this: it seemed like another tame children’s fiction mining well-used tropes of ghostly goings-on with jokey names; but luckily I was wrong. For this was as much dark and ghastly as comic and ghostly, and names like Clawstone, Blackscar and Trembellow are no more silly than genuine placenames can be.
Also there’s genuine jeopardy aplenty: for instance, with the UK’s foot-and-mouth outbreak in cattle during 2001 strong in the memory, the prospect of the ancient Clawstone breed cattle of cattle being wiped out puts a real dampener on proceedings. Oh, and did I forget to mention mad scientists and clandestine immigrants? And banshees?
Moreover, despite the cover designs of different editions aiming to appeal to younger readers, Ibbotson’s story is often regarded as a crossover novel: features like the humour and the ghosts speaking to youthful imaginations, and political undercurrents and more obscure lore registering with some adults.
For example, the Clawstone cattle were obviously inspired by the real-life Chillingham wild cattle from Ibbotson’s Northumberland, but I’m also aware that white creatures with reddish ears – dogs, say, as well as cattle – are traditionally associated with faërie. Ibbotson even obliquely brings in the odd mythical or extinct creature such as unicorn and dodo, along with real-life beasts like narwhals and skinks, which might whet the interest of the curious student. Current affairs also form an element in the story, with refugees from central Europe seeking safety (as Ibbotson did herself in childhood, escaping from Nazi Germany), along with green issues – such as the unrestrained extraction of gravel – working hand in glove with commercial sabotage.
Yet if there seems a lot to cram into what is essentially a children’s book, with the general assumption that one shouldn’t expect too much of this genre of fiction, then I’m conscious that this was certainly not a barrier to the popularity of Ibbotson’s close contemporary Joan Aiken, born just a year earlier; so there was no real reason why that should be the case here.
Luckily a book like this doesn’t ultimately rely on how complex or simple the plot is. Madlyn and Rollo in fact are recognisably attractive yet very different protagonists, ready to form unlikely partnerships with their relatives, with Ned and the other villagers, and even with the ghosts – some of whose stories were actually inspired by Chillingham Castle’s reputed spectres. And quite apart from the downfall of villains what one hopes for is that the main characters whom we admire win through in the end despite all adversity. And adversity there will certainly be!
March 29, 2017
3 1/2 stars
Read as an adult.
Not as gory as some of Ms. Ibbotson's other books. The ghosts were a bit gruesome, but that's ok... they're GHOSTS after all!
Read as an adult.
Not as gory as some of Ms. Ibbotson's other books. The ghosts were a bit gruesome, but that's ok... they're GHOSTS after all!
January 7, 2023
I forgot all about the unicorn plot, but it was good; I wish there were more Open Day haunting scenes. The ending is good, all the loose ends get tied up neatly. Best ghosts are Sunita and Ranulf de Torqueville
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2021
Probably about 12-15 years ago, I read this book many, many times. I was around 12 years old, and I never thought past checking it out of the library, reading it, and returning it. By the time I was older and thought about this book I had loved so much and wanted to read again, I had forgotten the title. All I could remember was "there were ghosts in a castle and narwhals" and that was not enough for even the best "help me find this book" websites. I thought about it a few times a year, thinking the title would come to me. It didn't, but a few months ago, I was in the Goodwill Bookstore looking for books for my classroom. As I looked, I saw the spine of this book poking out on the bottom shelf, and I recognized the color and design of the spine right away. I grabbed it, read the inside cover to be sure, and I couldn't believe it. The book I had loved so much was found again, and of course I bought it. I was so happy to read it again; it was just as magical, as funny, and as heart-warming as young Emily remembered.
Books are magic. The stories you need turn up in the unlikeliest of places. There are a million little things that could have happened that led to someone not donating this book, or me not being there that day, or not looking down at the bottom of the shelf. I hope if someone is reading this, that you find the book you've forgotten too.
Books are magic. The stories you need turn up in the unlikeliest of places. There are a million little things that could have happened that led to someone not donating this book, or me not being there that day, or not looking down at the bottom of the shelf. I hope if someone is reading this, that you find the book you've forgotten too.
May 30, 2018
The premise was good:- Children go to live with uncles and aunts they don't know and help out to save the castle they live in - a failing tourist attraction - which is being sabotaged by a family of one uppers who own their own castle. To keep visitors coming to the castle, they hire real ghosts to haunt the castle. But then tragedy strikes, a rare breed of cows Uncle George owns and loves are found to have a terrible disease and need to be killed before it spreads. Or do they???? It all leads to an island off the coast of Scotland that you can only reach when tide is out and to complicate matters further, the pair of disembodied feet finds a headstone and refuses to move away from it when the children are so close to figuring it all out. And also Banshee grandmas get involved.
It's original! And it should be good! The problem is, the story falls flat and not everything is resolved. It's half a children's book, half a political commentary. I have no problems with political commentaries in books, but this feels like things were added on to make the commentary, not a natural part of the story.
But, I'm an adult and this is a children's book, so my opinion counts for nothing here, really.
It's original! And it should be good! The problem is, the story falls flat and not everything is resolved. It's half a children's book, half a political commentary. I have no problems with political commentaries in books, but this feels like things were added on to make the commentary, not a natural part of the story.
But, I'm an adult and this is a children's book, so my opinion counts for nothing here, really.
November 5, 2009
When Madlyn and Rollo are sent to live with their elderly relatives and Clawstone Castle for the summer, they hire an array of ghosts to haunt the place in order to raise interest in the castle. Shortly after things start to pick up, though, the white cows that have lived on the grounds for centuries are mysteriously taken away after they come down with a disease and the children and ghosts are determined to find them and bring them back. Although I usually enjoy Ibbotson, I don't find this to be as strong as her other offerings. She seems to be trying to cram too much of her own views into too short of story for an audience who aren't as interested in subjects like plastic surgery, oil and deforestation. Still, the ghosts are entertaining and premise is a good one.
June 27, 2009
Read it last year while on holiday in France and I loved it! An exciting book where two kids with the help of a group of ghosts (who haunt their uncle's museum) must save their uncle's cattle from cruelly being turned into unicorns! Quite sad but adventurous all the same.
Couldn't put it down. Would stay up very late at night trying to find out what happened next! A great book with very clear description. Anyone who loves animals would cry while reading this.
Couldn't put it down. Would stay up very late at night trying to find out what happened next! A great book with very clear description. Anyone who loves animals would cry while reading this.
March 1, 2021
I love Eva Ibbotson's children's books - they have such a bittersweet yet hopeful tone, and in a way hint at the rather somber realities of adulthood while still having everything turn out well.
The Beasts of Clawstone Castle does those things too, but it's not my favorite of her books, as I did not feel many of the characters had much depth. Still, I enjoyed the outlandish plot, and visiting with the Clawstone cattle.
The Beasts of Clawstone Castle does those things too, but it's not my favorite of her books, as I did not feel many of the characters had much depth. Still, I enjoyed the outlandish plot, and visiting with the Clawstone cattle.
April 14, 2017
163 - 2017
September 1, 2025
Molto carino ✨
March 9, 2019
Nhiều khả năng đây sẽ là cuốn sách đầu tiên và duy nhất của tác giả Eva Ibbotson mà mình đọc. Không phải là một cuốn sách tệ, thậm chí còn là một cuốn tầm trung, chỉ là mình thấy không có nhu cầu đọc thêm các tựa sách khác của bà nữa, thế thôi.
Đánh giá: 3/5
Đánh giá: 3/5
February 1, 2025
J'ai trouvé cette lecture assez "cosy". L'histoire est légère tout en abordant des sujets qui font
réfléchir. J'ai bien aimé le mélange entre l'aventure des enfants qui cherchent à sauver le manoir et les messages plus profonds que le livre transmet. Sous ses airs de récit jeunesse, on aborde des thèmes importants comme la protection des animaux, la cupidité, l'avidité et les excès. C'est un livre jeunesse, donc il reste simple dans son écriture, mais ça n'enlève rien au plasir. Les personnages sont très attachants. Ce n'est pas un livre qui fait peur, même avec des fantômes, car ils
sont présentés de manière humoristique.
Finalement j'ai été agréablement surprise par ce livre.
réfléchir. J'ai bien aimé le mélange entre l'aventure des enfants qui cherchent à sauver le manoir et les messages plus profonds que le livre transmet. Sous ses airs de récit jeunesse, on aborde des thèmes importants comme la protection des animaux, la cupidité, l'avidité et les excès. C'est un livre jeunesse, donc il reste simple dans son écriture, mais ça n'enlève rien au plasir. Les personnages sont très attachants. Ce n'est pas un livre qui fait peur, même avec des fantômes, car ils
sont présentés de manière humoristique.
Finalement j'ai été agréablement surprise par ce livre.
January 14, 2012
Ibbotson is terrific at the beginning of a story. Unlike so many writers, she can draw you in right from the start; and this is what I mainly remember about this particular novel. This book features one of her competent main characters: a girl who is kind and good, courageous and resourceful. Despite having flaky parents, and being put in the care of fairly useless elderly relatives, you just know that she will manage them all and save the day.
This book features ghosts, and a decaying stately home -- not unusual features of an Ibbotson novel -- but more atypically, there is also a herd of rare white cattle which must be saved. I thought that the plot wandered a bit . . . perhaps that is why I can't remember its meanderings all that well more than a month after finishing it . . . but it does have a goodly share of the usual Ibbotson charms.
This book features ghosts, and a decaying stately home -- not unusual features of an Ibbotson novel -- but more atypically, there is also a herd of rare white cattle which must be saved. I thought that the plot wandered a bit . . . perhaps that is why I can't remember its meanderings all that well more than a month after finishing it . . . but it does have a goodly share of the usual Ibbotson charms.
July 3, 2018
Underlying tones of religion, politics about immigration, different cultures and the rich and poor. Feels like the writers opinion regarding these subjects is the correct one and that the reader should also think/believe the same. I thought the idea of a book is to get people thinking about certain subjects so questions can be asked and things can be learnt. Spoiler Alert: I also don't like the fact that one of the antagonist ends up losing all his money, his properties, business and ends up living on a "council estate". The fact the writer is using – living on a council estate as a punishment is just wrong. Sends out the wrong message to children and I am really surprised the publishers allowed this.
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May 14, 2017Upon the fields of Clawstone Park graze a herd of snow white cattle. They've been there for centuries, and where they came from is a mystery.
Madlyn and Rollo are not terribly excited to spend the summer with their Uncle George at Clawstone Castle. But when the white beasts go missing, suddenly there is a reason. --Tiffany J.
Madlyn and Rollo are not terribly excited to spend the summer with their Uncle George at Clawstone Castle. But when the white beasts go missing, suddenly there is a reason. --Tiffany J.
June 26, 2013
This was a strange book on CD I happened to pick up at the library to listen to in my car. The story wasn't the most horrible story I have read, but it was tedious at times.
I liked all the ghosts a lot, they made me laugh.
I thought the beasts were a little boring.
I was happy when the book was over so I could then listen to something less boring.
I liked all the ghosts a lot, they made me laugh.
I thought the beasts were a little boring.
I was happy when the book was over so I could then listen to something less boring.
September 18, 2011
It was good, but it was like all the characters shut off at the end. All the plots died, and you couldn't tell what was going to happen. Then before you know it they're off to London and it's like nothing ever happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2020
It's so reassuring to go back to a book that you loved as a kid and find you still love it just as much.
Also, I still hear it in David Tennant's accent, because I had the audiobook on cassette tape and listened to it over and over and over again.
Also, I still hear it in David Tennant's accent, because I had the audiobook on cassette tape and listened to it over and over and over again.
October 15, 2019
DNF'd 125 pages in. I just don't like how eating disorders were handled in this book. There were other things that were also bothing me. Like how plastic surgery was talked about and how there was a husband forcing his wife to get it. It was just freaking disturbing. I can't stomach more of it.
November 7, 2017
When I was in fourth grade, I did a project on Eva Ibbotson. I'd just read Time Stops for No Mouse, and wanted to choose Michael Hoeye instead, but we needed an author who'd written at least 5 books, and he hadn't published that many yet. I still consider myself an informal expert on Ibbotson, despite having absolutely forgotten everything I researched. The Beasts of Clawstone Castle reminds me a bit of Ibbotson's Dial-a-Ghost--or perhaps one of her other ghost-heavy tales. I also began thinking of Joan Aiken's The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, partially because I recently reread it, and partially because of the similar grandiose castle(-like) settings, notable for the wild animals nearby. As I progressed, the connection grew more and more tenuous--although Dial-a-Ghost might make up the difference. I wonder, also, if The Feet stemmed from the Addams Family's Thing T. Thing (the hand), a name which thankfully showed up easily on Google.
Ibbotson writes with such a specific sense of humor that I doubt I could mistake her writing for anyone else's. She pokes fun with a very sharp stick in a way so particularly British and restrained that it offers a piercing critique of certain elements of society while still managing to come off humorous. (Some examples: processed food, plastic surgery, greed, the prevalence of concrete, capitalism, big businesses, greed, British nobility, refusing refugees, poaching, etc., and yes greed a third time.) The best comparison I may be able to come up with is Ms. Marple, who I incidentally saw at a costume party last week for Halloween. That British disparagement for certain faults of humanity (greed, lust), for fashion trends and some new technology--it comes through vividly, and I'm not surprised I've always thought of Ibbotson as a grandmother. She writes like she's telling her favorite grandchild a fairy tale; many of her books feel oddly dated, rooted in history so specifically and consciously that it's no surprise when bloodied ghosts appear.
I'd like to mention that the first time I read this I related most to Lady Trembellow. That's a very strange thing, that a 10-12-year-old girl should relate most to the overlooked housewife pressured into repeated plastic surgery. Not precisely a spoiler:
I expected to write that this doesn't particularly stand out from Ibbotson's other ghost stories, but I think that's only true if you read them in succession. When the ghosts introduced themselves, I delighted to make their re-acquaintance. What a wonderful batch of haunters those kids dug up! I really like Rollo, for being who he is, yet all the "good" characters (for lack of a better descriptor) are immensely enjoyable to read. The cows themselves stand out, luminescent, in my imagination. I'm glad to learn they're based on a real herd.
One last thing: as I turned the final page of this book, I found myself wiping tears from my eyes.
Ibbotson writes with such a specific sense of humor that I doubt I could mistake her writing for anyone else's. She pokes fun with a very sharp stick in a way so particularly British and restrained that it offers a piercing critique of certain elements of society while still managing to come off humorous. (Some examples: processed food, plastic surgery, greed, the prevalence of concrete, capitalism, big businesses, greed, British nobility, refusing refugees, poaching, etc., and yes greed a third time.) The best comparison I may be able to come up with is Ms. Marple, who I incidentally saw at a costume party last week for Halloween. That British disparagement for certain faults of humanity (greed, lust), for fashion trends and some new technology--it comes through vividly, and I'm not surprised I've always thought of Ibbotson as a grandmother. She writes like she's telling her favorite grandchild a fairy tale; many of her books feel oddly dated, rooted in history so specifically and consciously that it's no surprise when bloodied ghosts appear.
I'd like to mention that the first time I read this I related most to Lady Trembellow. That's a very strange thing, that a 10-12-year-old girl should relate most to the overlooked housewife pressured into repeated plastic surgery. Not precisely a spoiler:
I expected to write that this doesn't particularly stand out from Ibbotson's other ghost stories, but I think that's only true if you read them in succession. When the ghosts introduced themselves, I delighted to make their re-acquaintance. What a wonderful batch of haunters those kids dug up! I really like Rollo, for being who he is, yet all the "good" characters (for lack of a better descriptor) are immensely enjoyable to read. The cows themselves stand out, luminescent, in my imagination. I'm glad to learn they're based on a real herd.
One last thing: as I turned the final page of this book, I found myself wiping tears from my eyes.
December 3, 2020
I actually finished this almost a month to the day ago. I just never wrote review for some reason. But, I've finally decided to stop putting it off.
I love Eva Ibbotson. I've loved Eva Ibbotson since I was a kid and I've read almost all of her books in this style (i.e. the quirky children's fantasy ones not the european princess/peasant girl? mid 20th century stuff). I remember enjoying this one as I always did, but it wasn't a standout like some of the others. But, I knew without a doubt I'd enjoy it and at the time that's what I wanted.
It didn't disappoint.
Madlyn and Rollo are siblings that go to stay with their elderly relatives in their castle. The elderly relatives run a castle tour that hasn't been profitable since the fancy, shmancy castle tour opened up across the way. But, they desperately need the money in order to pay for the wild cows that have roamed free on the castlegrounds for decades. With the help of some ghosts they just might pull it off.
If you've ever read any of Ibbotson's work you'll have a general idea of how this will go. Sweet, well-mannered kind of weird kids save the day. There are gruesome yet still wholesome ghosts. The characters aren't very deep, but they have a certain charm to them that makes you root for the regardless. The villains are annoyingly realistic enough that when the comeuppance is had it's very rewarding.
The underlying theme of all of Ibbotson's work that I've read is to have respect for others and be kind when you can. It creates a very distinct tone. You will have the kookiest characters - a ghost who has a ghost rat gnawing at his heart for instance - be welcomed 100% as they are immediately. It's such a warm and accepting atmosphere. It's part of why I find her books so comforting.
There's honestly not a lot to say. It's an easy, breezy read. Again, if you want an odd, lighthearted ghost story with a happy ending and strong found family themes then go for it.
I love Eva Ibbotson. I've loved Eva Ibbotson since I was a kid and I've read almost all of her books in this style (i.e. the quirky children's fantasy ones not the european princess/peasant girl? mid 20th century stuff). I remember enjoying this one as I always did, but it wasn't a standout like some of the others. But, I knew without a doubt I'd enjoy it and at the time that's what I wanted.
It didn't disappoint.
Madlyn and Rollo are siblings that go to stay with their elderly relatives in their castle. The elderly relatives run a castle tour that hasn't been profitable since the fancy, shmancy castle tour opened up across the way. But, they desperately need the money in order to pay for the wild cows that have roamed free on the castlegrounds for decades. With the help of some ghosts they just might pull it off.
If you've ever read any of Ibbotson's work you'll have a general idea of how this will go. Sweet, well-mannered kind of weird kids save the day. There are gruesome yet still wholesome ghosts. The characters aren't very deep, but they have a certain charm to them that makes you root for the regardless. The villains are annoyingly realistic enough that when the comeuppance is had it's very rewarding.
The underlying theme of all of Ibbotson's work that I've read is to have respect for others and be kind when you can. It creates a very distinct tone. You will have the kookiest characters - a ghost who has a ghost rat gnawing at his heart for instance - be welcomed 100% as they are immediately. It's such a warm and accepting atmosphere. It's part of why I find her books so comforting.
There's honestly not a lot to say. It's an easy, breezy read. Again, if you want an odd, lighthearted ghost story with a happy ending and strong found family themes then go for it.
September 22, 2019
Is there anything more wistful that a good children’s book?
The Beasts of Clawstone Castle is a spooky and playful story of two siblings and their determined efforts to save their family’s castle and cattle. After being sent to stay with their elderly aunt and uncle, Rollo and Madlyn find them in desperate need of help. In order to bring more people in for tours. In order to do this the children, enlist the help of some local ghosts. But they must compete with the rich and ruthless Lord Tremblow next door, who has set his eyes on the castle.
This is a fun and spooky book filled with great characters and enjoyable plot. I rather liked that the ghosts truly had not had peaceful ends. A little dark but done in such a way that I didn’t even notice as a child. I first read this when I was in grade six, and I can see how it has shaped the books I have come to love today. Sci-fi and fantasy – something I can see very clearly in this book. I would recommend to anyone for a fun and quick read.
The Beasts of Clawstone Castle is a spooky and playful story of two siblings and their determined efforts to save their family’s castle and cattle. After being sent to stay with their elderly aunt and uncle, Rollo and Madlyn find them in desperate need of help. In order to bring more people in for tours. In order to do this the children, enlist the help of some local ghosts. But they must compete with the rich and ruthless Lord Tremblow next door, who has set his eyes on the castle.
This is a fun and spooky book filled with great characters and enjoyable plot. I rather liked that the ghosts truly had not had peaceful ends. A little dark but done in such a way that I didn’t even notice as a child. I first read this when I was in grade six, and I can see how it has shaped the books I have come to love today. Sci-fi and fantasy – something I can see very clearly in this book. I would recommend to anyone for a fun and quick read.
March 26, 2021
Madlyn and Rollo are sent to spend the summer at Clawstone castle with Aunt Emily and Uncle George.
It's a wonderful, manorial old pile but it's oozing money and they are struggling to keep it running but they are desperate to keep it open with fun days, odd museum exhibits and the kids are trying to enlist the local ghosts to give the visitors a scare and value for their money.
If Clawstone closes then the rare white herd of cattle will be taken away and destroyed and they are the heritage of Clawstone.
But then one day regardless of money worries some mysterious vets come to impound the cattle as they have "Klapperts disease."
The children and ghosts are suspicious so investigate the situation and what they find is a horrific, dastardly plan overseen by the evil Dr. Manners.
But can they kids and ghosts combined be enough to save both the herd and Clawstone?
An inventive and enjoyable children's story although the animal cruelty jarred with me and was quite brutal considering it's a children's story.
It's a wonderful, manorial old pile but it's oozing money and they are struggling to keep it running but they are desperate to keep it open with fun days, odd museum exhibits and the kids are trying to enlist the local ghosts to give the visitors a scare and value for their money.
If Clawstone closes then the rare white herd of cattle will be taken away and destroyed and they are the heritage of Clawstone.
But then one day regardless of money worries some mysterious vets come to impound the cattle as they have "Klapperts disease."
The children and ghosts are suspicious so investigate the situation and what they find is a horrific, dastardly plan overseen by the evil Dr. Manners.
But can they kids and ghosts combined be enough to save both the herd and Clawstone?
An inventive and enjoyable children's story although the animal cruelty jarred with me and was quite brutal considering it's a children's story.
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