The Incorrigible children actually were.

Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children. Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners in time for the holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische?



To my Esteemed Readers,

Allow me to introduce myself: I am Maryrose Wood, author of this first volume of a new series of books about the Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place and their plucky young governess, Miss Penelope Lumley. Although I was never enrolled at the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, I have attended other, less interesting schools. In addition, I have some experience as a professional thespian, a governess (well, a mother), and am the owner of several rather spoiled pets (alas, there are no ponies among them). I have also written several other novels for young adults. To learn more about me, and to submit your eagerly awaited correspondence, you may visit www.maryrosewood.com.

In the words of Agatha Swanburne, founder of the aforementioned Academy and a wellspring of pithy sayings: “Every book is judged by its cover until it is read.” For your initial impression of this work, then, you may thank illustrator Jon Klassen, who has also provided charming, comical, and occasionally hair-raising interior illustrations for the book.

It is my sincere wish that the tale contained within this account of the Incorrigible children will provide you with many howls of enjoyment, as well as some useful animal-training techniques.

Respectfully, and with thanks,

Maryrose Wood
The Author