'I write this sitting in the kitchen sink' is the first line of this timeless, witty and enchanting novel about growing up. Cassandra Mortmain lives with her bohemian and impoverished family in a crumbling castle in the middle of nowhere. Her journal records her life with her beautiful, bored sister, Rose, her fadingly glamorous stepmother, Topaz, her little brother Thomas and her eccentric novelist father who suffers from a financially crippling writer's block.

, However, all their lives are turned upside down when the American heirs to the castle arrive and Cassandra finds herself falling in love for the first time. An older cover for this ISBN may be found here.

Why You Should Read?

• Explores the themes of a bohemian and impoverished family living in a crumbling castle, offering a unique setting.
• Features a distinctive narrative voice through the journal entries of the protagonist, Cassandra Mortmain.
• Examines the impact of the arrival of American heirs on the family's lives and Cassandra's first experience with love.
• Presents the complexities of family dynamics, particularly focusing on the relationships between sisters, parents, and siblings.

About the Author

Dodie Smith is the author of "I Capture The Castle". She was a British novelist and playwright known for her charming and insightful portrayals of family life and the struggles of young women. Smith's writing often blended humor with a deep understanding of human emotions, resonating with readers of all ages. Her works, including this novel, are celebrated for their distinctive narrative voice and enduring appeal.