The Unadoptables
The lead debut for Puffin this year, and one of only three Middle Grade titles chosen by the American Booksellers’ Association for the “Indies Introduce” List 2020.
Five amazing children . . . one most Un-ordinary adventure.
In all the years that Elinora Gassbeek has been matron of the Little Tulip Orphanage, not once have the Rules for Baby Abandonment been broken. Until the autumn of 1886, when five babies are left in outrageous circumstances: one in a tin toolbox, one in a coal bucket, one in a picnic hamper, one in a wheat sack, and finally, one in a coffin-shaped basket.
Those babies were Lotta, Egg, Fenna, Sem and Milou. And although Gassbeek might think they’re ‘unadoptable’, they know their individuality is what makes them so special – and so determined to stay together.
Then a most sinister gentleman appears and threatens to tear them apart. The gang decide to make a daring escape, fleeing the frozen canals of Amsterdam for an adventure packed with puppets and pirate ships, clock-makers and cruel villains – and with only a scrap of a clue to guide them to their mysterious new home . . .
Witty, charming and full of twists, The Unadoptables is a gripping and heart-warming story about what family really means.
Praise for The Unadoptables
‘A compelling, gorgeously-written story about the power of friendship and the true meaning of family . . . Perfection!’ – Robin Stevens, author of Murder Most Unladylike
‘A high-speed, witty, absurd and joyful adventure.’ – Katherine Rundell, author of Rooftoppers and The Good Thieves
‘A corker of a story.’ – Emma Carroll, author of Letters to the Lighthouse
‘A book to absolutely fall in love with.’ – Cerrie Burnell, author of The Girl with the Shark’s Teeth