Five go adventuring again: 2 by Enid Blyton

Book Summary

In this second adventure of the Famous Five series, Julian, Dick, Anne, George (Georgina), and Timmy the dog reunite at Kirrin Cottage for the Christmas holidays. Anne and George receive a letter from their father, informing them that they cannot go home due to their mother having scarlet fever and being in quarantine. Consequently, the children decide to spend the holidays at Kirrin Cottage with Aunt Fanny and Uncle Quentin.

Uncle Quentin, who is working on a secret scientific project, hires a tutor, Mr. Roland, to help Julian and Dick catch up on their schoolwork. George, who has just returned from boarding school, is also required to attend the lessons. During their stay, the children explore Kirrin Farm and discover an old house run by Mr. and Mrs. Sanders. They find a hidden compartment containing a medical book and a linen map inscribed with Latin words. The map appears to indicate a "secret way" leading to an east-facing room with eight wooden panels.

The children suspect that Mr. Roland is involved in a theft when Uncle Quentin's secret papers go missing. They later uncover the "secret way" leading to the artists' room in Kirrin Farm and find the stolen papers. With the help of Timmy, they confront the thieves and lock them in a room until the police arrive to arrest them. 

About the Author: 

Enid Blyton (1897–1968) was a prolific British author renowned for her children's books. Born in London, she began her writing career in the early 1920s and went on to author approximately 700 books and 2,000 short stories. Her most famous works include the Famous Five, Secret Seven, Five Find-Outers, Noddy, and Malory Towers series. Blyton's stories are characterized by adventure, mystery, and a clear distinction between good and evil. Despite facing criticism for some of her views and writing style, her popularity among young readers remains enduring.