The great piratical rumbustification ; & The librarian and the robbers - Margaret Mahy

A former pirate and a band of robbers meet their match in these two funny stories for children.

Piratical Rumbustification introduces us to Alpha, Oliver, and Omega Terrapin, home alone with none other than Orpheus Clinker, a reformed pirate cleverly transformed into a respectable babysitter. Or has he reformed? Before you can say "yo ho ho" the Terrapin household has become headquarters of the century's biggest pirate party.

The Librarian and the Robbers is an equally tickling tale of a band of wicked robbers who one day carry off Serena Leburnum, a beautiful librarian. Follow what happens as the lovely and learned Miss L. not only outwits the robbers, turning them into outstanding citizens, but also teaches them the everlasting pleasures of the Dewey Decimal System.

This two-in-one collection by masters of humor for children (the equally sublime Margaret Mahy and Quentin Blake) is a treat for any kid who loves to laugh.