Kids into books: House of Huxtable

Author: Joy Lowe

Illustrator: Brent Putze

Publisher: Mallinson Rendel, $15.95

Age group: 8-11 years


What was the point of having your own space if you died or hypothermia?

Grandad was grinning that silly smile he had when he was pleased with himself. 'Well, what do you think?' He had the air of a man who had just spent a million dollars on his family.

'Is that it?' Molly's voice was full of outrage. 'How could you do this to me, Grandad?' She stamped her foot and her voice was shrill. 'You have ruined my life. I can ever ask my friends to this dump.'

'Your frinds are all a bunch of loslers, anyway,' Tom was the youngest and loved baiting Molly.

'You leave my friends alone, you horrible little...' Molly held her breath as she tried to think of the absolute insult, 'Maggot-face!' she exhaled triumphantly.'

'Don't you two start now,' Mum groaned.

Quinn watched grandad watching Mum in expectation as she looked at the house. The despair on her face made his mouth droop. 'It's a bit run-down,' he said defensively. 'But it's basically sound. Nothing that a bit of hard work can't fix.'

Tomorrow: Making the best of it.