Joan Aiken was an amazing writer of children’s fiction about the supernatural or alternative history. The long series of fat books which begin with The Wolves of Willoughby Chase are set in Britain in a version of late 17th century history where James II was never deposed in the Glorious Revolution, but supporters of the House of Hanover are active enemies of the monarchy. Wolves have invaded the country from Europe via the newly built Channel Tunnel. The child hero or heroine varies from one book to another, but my favourite appears first in book 2, Black Hearts in Battersea. Here I met Dido Twite, a poor ragamuffin girl who helps young apprentice painter, Simon and the wealthy, Sophie. Dido Twite speaks appallingly, dresses scruffily and is defiantly independent. She also proves to be loyal and brave. The children deal with wolves, kidnapping and shipwreck.
Part of Dido’s endearing quality is her personal vocabulary. In distress she exclaims, “Croopus!” Her friendly greeting is, “Wotcher my cully,” and we understand her meaning when she says, “betwaddled,” or “havey-cavey.” It is such a relief when this extraordinary girl reappears in Night Birds in Nantucket and other books in series.
This will be the last of my #AtoZChallenges for two reasons. Firstly, because I am travelling for several days with limited Internet connection but secondly because I am uninspired by the last few letters of the alphabet. Perhaps you can suggest suitable book characters you might have included in your list of favourites.
My A to Z favourite Book Characters
Lizanne lost in a good book 
I haven’t heard of these books — thanks for the recommendation!
As for book characters, I could only think of two for “W”! Willy Wonka from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. Winter from Winter by Marissa Meyer
Ronel visiting with the A-Z Challenge music and writing: Sweet Country
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Willy Wonka is a great idea. I haven’t heard of the other book.
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I’ve always meant to read Aitken, but I haven’t so far. Didn’t know abtou this series, but it sounds great. I’ll have to have a look at it. How many books are there in the series?
@JazzFeathers
The Old Shelter – Berliner Cabaret
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V for Michael Vey Z for Zeuss both from the Michael Vey series. Yeller from old Yeller. If you got stuck on a leeter like U you could consider a catch all like Ursula Leguinn Characters or a characteristic like Urchins and perhaps go Dickens on us. The secret with me getting through the challenge is taking a little creative license with the alphabetizing.
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Thanks, Dave. Urchins are a great idea.
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