Landscape with Cracked Sheep - Mary Arrigan PRICE: IRP£ 3.95 PUBLISHER: Childrens Press ‘96

Banished to the wilds of Galway with cousin Leo, Maeve Morris looks forward to a boring time. After all, nothing ever happens in Glengowan. But because it's that kind of summer, things begin to happen. For starters, Gowan House is up for sale, which reminds owner Lady Gowan of a family heirloom that disapeared years ago. Then into the sleepy village comes a blond greek statue, and Maeve's heart goes into overdrive. Jamie turns up and the two decide to follow the trail of the lost painting, but Maeve, torn between two real-life "fine hulks", finds it difficult to work up an interest in an old master. Then a dramatic late-night encounter concentrates her mind wonderfully.....