After reading What She Knew, I felt a needed a break from thrillers and books about missing children, even though I do love them. So I was very pleased when my friend lent me The Trouble With Goats and Sheep, which I had seen a few people reading recently.
In the long, hot summer of 1976, 10-year-old Grace and her best friend, Tilly, set out to track down their missing neighbour, Mrs Creasy. They believe God may be key to the disappearance, so they visit all of their neighbours in search of both God and clues to Mrs Creasy’s whereabouts. While their neighbours are happy to give them lemonade and custard creams, they seem less inclined to talk about Mrs Creasy. Do the neighbours know more than they are letting on? Are there even bigger secrets lurking in their little cup-de-sac?
OK, so there is a missing person in this story, but it’s definitely not a thriller. The Trouble With Goats and Sheep is an absolute joy. The characters are all painted so vividly and there is a real strong feeling of the 1970s and simpler times. There’s also a healthy dose of gentle humour throughout the book. I read a few pages over the course of a couple of days, then read the remaining 360+ pages during a day trip to London. And I absolutely loved it!
If you remember the 70s, or even if you don’t, you will love Grace, Tilly and everything about The Trouble With Goats and Sheep. It is definitely one of my favourite books of the year.
As reading this marked the middle of the year for me (I finished it a few weeks ago), I thought I would reflect on my favourite books of the year so far. It was a difficult choice, as I’ve read some good ones, but I would say my other favourites are Small Great Things, Why Did You Lie?, Lying in Wait and I Let You Go.
August 5, 2017
This sounds like a nice book, not too taxing! I can’t really get into thrillers so I enjoy your other recommendations! I’m reading the Boy Made of Blocks at the moment.
Nat.x
August 5, 2017
This is a lovely book, I’m sure you will love it! Hope you’re enjoy Boy Made of Blocks too!
August 6, 2017
thanks for the recommendation. now on order frome the library Cheers
August 30, 2017
I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!
August 28, 2017
I’ve heard only good things about this book! And fab book choices for the year so far. Thanks for sharing with #readwithme
August 30, 2017
It’s well worth a read, I’m sure you will love it! Wondering what brilliant books I will come across in the second half of the year…
August 28, 2017
I’m taking a break from thrillers and missing children books as well. I’m reading an Agatha Raisin book which is a nice easy read 🙂
August 30, 2017
I’ve never read an Agatha Raisin, but I’ve heard good things about them. I imagine them being like a Cotswolds version of the No1 Ladies Detective Agency.
August 28, 2017
I love the title of this book, I#ve not heard of it before. It sounds like a nice, gentle holiday read 🙂
#ReadWithMe
August 30, 2017
It’s well worth a read! It’s definitely gentle, but not too gentle!
August 28, 2017
I read this book a few months ago, I thought it was a great read. The character development is excellent. #readwithme
August 30, 2017
It’s brilliant, isn’t it? Glad you enjoyed it too. I loved the characters.
August 28, 2017
Ooooo I have been thinking about reading this one! Thanks for sharing the review – I’m adding it to my library list! #readwithme
August 30, 2017
You should definitely give it a go! It’s a lovely read.