Horse ¦ A Present for Nellie

Two more in the excellent Blackbird series. As usual Jane Gardam's story tells more than it says. Susan and old Mr Grandly seem to be the only people in the village to notice that Horse on the hill who used to look 'pressed out of the grass by a huge pastry cutter. Dazzling white.' is now overgrown with bilberries and weeds. But when the Forestry arrives intending to plant Christmas tress all over him the whole village begins to take notice. Demanding and rewarding but not difficult. Lots to talk about with those who wish; but don't be surprised if some want just to hug it to themselves.

A Present for Nellie is based on an incident from Eleanor Farjeon's autobiography. Those who don't shine at parties will share Nellie's hopes, fears and disappointments and even perhaps be comforted by the heart-warming ending and Nellie's grown-up realisation 'that how you looked was not the most important thing about you'.