Second in the 'Nettleford' series originally intended for children of around 9-12. The four Owlers meet again in the Christmas holidays, and are intimidated by some local bullies...

They also have to contend with a chicken thief, and the loss of a music box. There are lots of wintry scenes with sledging, snowballing, and a slightly tense section where two characters get lost in a very snowy wood.

Pleasant enough, though I doubt if it would appeal to most of today's pre-teens. There's quite a strong religious thread, relating to Christmas and the fact that one of the children is the daughter of. the local vicar. I thought it very well done but some might find it a bit too much.

Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2023/05/christmas-at-nettleford-by-malcolm.... ( )