Dimanche Diller - Henrietta Branford

A galloping story of escape and adventure, with wicked guardians, evil plots and a lively young female heroine. Winner of Smarties Prize 1994. Lively new cover and text illustrations with freshly designed interiors.

When Dimanche is orphaned at the tender age of one, Chief Inspector Barry Bullpit advertises for any known relative to come forward. Unluckily for Dimanche, her real aunt does not see the message, but an evil money-grabbing imposter does. Dimanche, heir to an enormous fortune, is sent to live with the dreaded Valburga Vilemile, who tries to rid herself of Dimanche at every opportunity. But her lack of success is partly due to Dimanche's wits and courage, and partly to Polly Pugh, Dimanche's young and pretty nanny, who foils all Valpurga's attempts and helps Dimanche find long-term happiness with her real aunt.

All the ingredients for a brilliant, attention-grabbing shorter novel are here; evil plots, kidnapping, wicked villains and gorgous heroines. Every chapter makes you want to shout 'Look behind you' or 'Oh no she doesn't' at almost every page turn. The Dimanche Diller series was well ahead of Lemony Snicket and is truly a Series of Unfortunate Events!