Description
Edith Nesbit’s Five Children and It (1902) is a delightful fantasy novel that combines everyday family life with magical adventure. The story centers on five siblings—Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane, and baby Lamb—who uncover a peculiar creature called a Psammead (a sand-fairy) while playing in a gravel pit. The Psammead grants them one wish per day, but the children quickly learn that magic rarely goes as planned. Their wishes—ranging from becoming beautiful to acquiring great wealth—always have unintended consequences, often leading to comical, inconvenient, or even dangerous situations. Through these experiences, the children gradually learn humility, responsibility, and the value of being ordinary. Nesbit’s narrative is notable for its conversational tone, clever humor, and respectful treatment of children’s intelligence. The book mixes fantasy with moral realism, grounding magical elements in the logic of childhood reasoning. Nesbit pioneered the use of contemporary settings for magical stories, influencing countless later writers, including C.S. Lewis. The Psammead itself is a memorable character—grumpy, ancient, and full of cryptic wisdom. Five Children and It remains an enduring classic, treasured for its imagination, wit, and its insightful depiction of sibling dynamics and human nature.
Mama –
“This story is an absolute delight! The adventures of these five children and their mischievous wishes had me laughing out loud. The Psammead is a wonderfully quirky character, and the unexpected consequences of each wish made for a truly engaging and entertaining read. A fantastic escape into a world of childhood wonder and silly magic.”
Nafisatu –
“This story is an absolute delight! The way the children’s wishes backfire in such funny and unpredictable ways kept me entertained from beginning to end. A truly charming tale that sparks the imagination and is perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of whimsical adventure.”
Chibuike –
“This was an absolute delight! The story of the five children and their wish-granting sand fairy is charming, witty, and full of unexpected twists. I laughed out loud at their ridiculous wishes and the hilarious predicaments they found themselves in. A truly imaginative and heartwarming read that I thoroughly enjoyed.”