This is an enchanting tale that any child would find amusing. In Roald Dahl fashion Henrietta lives in a dysfunctional household with parents who do not like her. Indeed parent / child roles are somewhat reversed. The miserable child is surprised by he mother's sudden change of heart when she takes her to school. However, Henri soon realises that she is a laughing stock and a pariah and no one wants to play with her or even talk. The kind intervention of her teacher helps her realise what a cruel trick has been played on her.
Henri after 10/11 years is now a different child, bent on revenge. Her change of heart is knocked sideways when she learns her parents do not want her and are going to send her away. Only;y after a magic coat is thrown at her does she realise they are not her parents. She cries and attracts the attention of a treki alien called Eanie Meanie who agrees to help. Suddenly she finds she is stranded in another world and meets a second malicious alien called Geegle. After a further twist the tree of them share one goal to get Henrietta home to her world. On their way a third character joins the called Arthur Charmin, a boy who is not a boy.
The remainder of the story covers Henri's adventurous school life and her journey far away from Earth. This is a book you cannot put down and need to keep turning the pages. ( )