Five Children and It
📘 About This Book
Whilst out playing in the countryside, five children come across a Psammead called 'It' - a cantankerous little sand fairy who agrees to grant them one wish every day, though its effects will only last until sunset. The possibilities seem endless to the adventurous siblings but whatever their wishes, whether it's having piles of money, growing wings, or disposing of their annoying infant brother, their days never seem to go as planned. Indeed, the consequences of all their wishes lead the children into many thrilling and often hilarious escapades. Edith Nesbit was inspired by her own five children to write this enchanting novel, and its warm and funny portrayal of a magical childhood has ensured its presence in print ever since. This beautifully illustrated Macmillan Collector's Library edition of Five Children and It features the drawings of H. R. Millar, and an afterword by writer, critic and broadcaster Nicolette Jones. Designed to appeal to the book lover, the Macmillan Collector's Library is a series of beautiful gift editions of much loved classic titles. Macmillan Collector's Library are books to love and treasure.
📖 Summary
Five Children and It by E. Nesbit follows the adventures of five siblings—Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane, and the Baby—who are sent from London to stay at a house in the Kentish countryside called White House. While playing in a gravel pit, they uncover a strange, ancient creature known as the Psammead, or sand-fairy. The Psammead has the power to grant each of the children one wish a day, but with a catch: the wishes always sunset at sundown, often leaving the children in chaotic, absurd, and unintended predicaments. Throughout their summer, the children test the limits of magical desire. They wish to be exceptionally beautiful, only to find themselves unrecognized by their own family and servants. They wish for a vast fortune of ancient gold, which proves completely useless and causes immense suspicion in the nearby town. Other misadventures include wishing for wings that land them in perilous danger atop a church steeple, wishing to be grown up, and wishing for a castle that becomes besieged by suspicious locals. In each instance, the children must use their wits to survive the consequences of their own short-sighted desires until the sun goes down and things return to normal. Ultimately, the Psammead teaches the children valuable lessons about responsibility, empathy, and contentment. When the children use their final wish to save the Psammead from danger, they form a lasting bond with the creature. Blending domestic realism with whimsical fantasy, the novel is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of sibling dynamics, clever humor, and the timeless caution that humans must be careful what they wish for.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Delightful, timeless humor that appeals to both children and adults.
Relatable and realistic depiction of sibling rivalry, affection, and everyday mischief.
Inventive magical scenarios that keep the reader engaged throughout every chapter.
⚠️ Cons
Some early 20th-century language and cultural attitudes may feel dated to modern readers.
Episodic structure means the overarching plot takes a backseat to individual adventures.
❓ FAQ
Is this book worth reading? +
Yes, it is a charming and humorous classic of children's literature that laid the groundwork for modern fantasy.
How long does it take to read? +
Typically around 3 to 4 hours, depending on reading speed, as it is a relatively short and accessible novel.
What is the main message? +
The main message is that shortcuts and magical wishes rarely solve life's problems, and true happiness comes from inner virtue and family bonds.
