Seventh and last in the 'La Rochelle' series, this book is interesting in its own right, and gives some useful background to characters who appear in the Guernsey era of the Chalet School books.

Nan Blakeney, aged 17 and grieving, is the main protagonist of the book. While some of the circumstances and values of the characters seem dated, sometimes snooty, sometimes harsh, EBD's portrayal of family life was quite progressive for the 1950s when this book was written.

There are some poignant moments, and also some mildly amusing incidents involving the creatively mischievous (but always obedient) children. There's more of a plot to this book than the previous one. It's not just about Nan coming to terms with a terrible bereavement; there's also a subplot involving 12-year-old Beth Chester who is feeling unloved, and is desperately jealous of her baby sister.

Recommended to adults like me who remember some of these books from our childhood, or for teenagers or other adults who like the early 20th century style of school and family stories. Although it stands alone it's best read after others in the series, as there are so many minor characters. Not always in print, but sometimes available second-hand.

Full review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2019/09/janie-steps-in-by-elinor-m-brent-dy... ( )