Alice-Miranda at School

Alice-Miranda Highton-Smith-Kennington-Jones arrives at Winchesterfield-Downsfordvale Academy for Proper Young Ladies at age seven and a quarter, determined to start boarding school early. The youngest student at this prestigious girls' school, she encounters an institution ruled by a mysterious headmistress who hasn't been seen for years. During her first term, Alice-Miranda notices problems at the school that the adults seem unwilling to address. She takes it upon herself to investigate why the headmistress remains hidden away and why some of the staff members behave so strangely. Between making new friends and excelling at her studies, Alice-Miranda works to solve the school's mysteries. Her natural leadership abilities and optimistic nature help her navigate the challenges of being the youngest student while trying to improve life at the academy. This middle-grade novel explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of one person to create positive change. Through its boarding school setting, the story examines how tradition and progress can coexist when approached with determination and kindness.

Parents and young readers describe Alice-Miranda at School as a lighthearted boarding school story aimed at ages 7-11. Readers appreciated: - The main character's optimistic and kind personality - Gentle handling of school issues like bullying and friendship - Complex vocabulary that challenges young readers - Positive messages about helping others Common criticisms: - Some found Alice-Miranda unrealistically perfect and mature for her age - Adult readers noted plot points that seem implausible - A few parents thought certain themes were too advanced for the target age Average Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (150+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "My 8-year-old daughter couldn't put it down" - Amazon reviewer "Too sweet and perfect to be believable" - Goodreads review "Great vocabulary builder but some situations feel forced" - Common Sense Media parent review "A gentler alternative to other boarding school series" - Goodreads reviewer

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🎀 Alice-Miranda is just seven and one quarter years old when she starts at boarding school, making her the youngest student ever at Winchesterfield-Downsfordvale Academy for Proper Young Ladies. ✏️ Author Jacqueline Harvey worked as a teacher and Deputy Head of Junior School before becoming a full-time writer, bringing authentic school experiences to her stories. 🏰 The boarding school setting was inspired by Abbotsleigh, an independent girls' school in Sydney where Jacqueline Harvey taught for many years. 📚 Alice-Miranda at School is the first book in what became an incredibly successful series, now spanning over 20 books and published in more than 80 countries. 🌟 The character of Alice-Miranda was partly inspired by a real student the author taught, who possessed similar qualities of optimism and determination.