Last of the six 'Sophie' books by this prolific writer, about a small and determined girl who wants to be a lady farmer.

In this story, seven-year-old Sophie and her family have the excitement of a holiday in Scotland to stay with the elderly Great-Aunt Al. Sophie and Aunt Al have been the best of friends for some time, and have rather similar personalities.

The ending of the book is both sad and tremendously encouraging, and brings a most satisfactory conclusion to this delightful series for small children.

These were some of my favourite books when my sons were small, and I'm delighted to have had the chance of revisiting them with my young friend. Although they could be read by any reasonably confident reader of about six and above, there is quite a bit of satire and other humour that is all the better for being read aloud, and which might not be noticed or understood by a young child. The language is not dumbed down in any way, yet it's written in a fairly simple style that children seem to enjoy.

Best read as the last in the series, but it does stand alone. ( )