First published in 1902 this is a Dutch classic that has been out of print in this country for some time. It depicts the life of a poor family: Afke, Marten and their ten children. It is a joyous read, scenes are perfectly constructed and I found myself bouncing up and down, grinning while reading it. Chapters create moments which hang in the imagination and the family presented feel utterly real. This reality is a function of their imperfect nature, they all want the best for each other but their exuberance often leads them astray. There is a sense of solidarity and generosity across the family, all keen to look out for each other and the book gives all of its large cast of characters a chance to shine. The richness of their family life is well contrasted with their ever-present financial poverty. The language is beautiful, Marie Kiersted Pidgeon seems to have done an excellent job of translation, spare but minutely detailed. At times this close presentation of everyday life brought to mind the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. There are a couple of points to note. The book presents gender rolls as very separate, not necessarily imposing a hierarchy but showing clear stereotypes. It also sees the children hit as a standard part of discipline. These are, in part, issues of the time and don't detract from the sense of love in the family.