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Posted by Kim on December 28, 2020
Hello, my mum has asked me to find a story about a horrible old lady who flies away on an umbrella and comes back nice. We think it may be an Enid Blyton tale but I'm not sure. Does anyone have any suggestions please?
Posted by Barbara on December 28, 2020
Barney, if you had a two way time portal back to Enid's heyday, what item would you bring back to 2020? For me, genuine wartime music on original LPs and a Second World War gramophone to play them on.
Barney says: I'd bring Bobs back (Enid Blyton's fox terrier) so we could enjoy long walks and games of chase together!
Posted by Paul on December 26, 2020
Hi, I seem to remember a story of a boy (possibly Brian) ill in bed who sees two small men who live in a grandfather clock. Any ideas which collection this may be from? Thanks.
Posted by Priya on December 25, 2020
Hi, I am Priya from Columbus, Ohio. I was excited to find the gift I received from my 5th-grade teacher in the year 1995 - Enid Blyton, Snicker the Brownie and Other Stories. I lost some pages after page 178. Do you have a copy of the book still? Please email me.Thanks, Priya
Barney says: I'm sorry some pages are missing from your book, Priya. Unfortunately we don't sell Enid Blyton books but you could search eBay, Amazon or equivalent websites for a copy of Snicker the Brownie and Other Stories. Best of luck!
Posted by Kylie on December 24, 2020
Good evening, I am trying to find the source books for a couple of stories.1 - was a tale about a blackbird that dipped its beak in gold paint.2 - was a tale about a girl who got lost and found a house where she was given the choice of a coat to wear and she chose what appeared to be the simplest one but it turned out to be an expensive coat instead.3 - was a tale about a modern house where all the furniture was integrated into the walls4 - was a tale about a nurse and was set in a hospital which caught on fire and the nurse and her patients were led to safety by an unknown nurse who then disappeared.I am not sure if the last two were even Blyton books...
Barney says: Story 1 might be 'A Crock of Gold' from The Adventures of Pip and story 2 might be 'The Little Candy House' (type the title into the search box in the Cave of Books to see which books it has appeared in), though it's a cloak rather than a coat. I think you may be right that stories 3 and 4 are not by Enid Blyton.
Posted by Stephanie O'neil on December 19, 2020
Just re-discovered the joys of Enid Blyton books and found a box of 52 vintage books being sold on Facebook which I snapped up for £15. Going to enjoy a winter curled up beside the fire.
Barney says: Sounds like a dog's dream, Stephanie!
Posted by Jeanette on December 18, 2020
Thank you Paul! I will look into it.
Posted by Paul B Austin on December 17, 2020
Jeanette, Monash University did a Faraway Tree play in the nineties, and RMIT University has often done Roald Dahl adaptions.
Posted by Judith Crabb on December 13, 2020
Most readers of the Five Find-Outers no doubt tried their hands at invisible writing using orange juice. Does anyone recall anywhere in Enid Blyton's work the subject of invisible writing using magnetism being mentioned or demonstrated?
Posted by Jeanette on December 8, 2020
Hi, I was wondering if a stage play script exists for the Faraway Tree? I would really like to do this with my students next year but am not having any luck finding one. Thank you.
Posted by Angela on December 6, 2020
Hi, I was trying to remember 'I Wish It Would Rain' but can only recall one verse and I believe there is a verse about an umbrella 'all shiny and new'. Could anyone jog my memory? Thank you so much. Angela Johnson
Barney says: I don't have access to that poem, Angela, but I hope someone is able to help.
Posted by Paul on December 5, 2020
Barney, it's only after reading Mr Twiddle that I realised that a meat pie was a special treat during the war.
Barney says: Yes, there were shortages so certain foods like meat were rationed (shudder!) during the war and for some years after.
Posted by Sarah on December 2, 2020
My son recently had to write a letter to his favourite author for his homework. It was suggested that the letter be sent to the author in the hope of a response. His teacher suggested that there may be another family member or someone he could send his letter to instead. Any suggestions? Thank you.
Barney says: If you like, you can send the letter to the Enid Blyton Society as an email attachment (our email address can be found under 'Contact Us'). We'll be happy to respond by email.
Posted by Paul on December 2, 2020
It's sad that so many dismiss Enid Blyton's fantasy stories in favour of her school stories and mysteries. Everyone should be able to enjoy the Faraway Tree and the Wishing Chair.
Barney says: Actually, when people are surveyed about their favourite children's books the Faraway Tree series often does very well!
Posted by Garry on December 1, 2020
Hi, when will we receive the 73rd Journal ?
Barney says: I don't know whether you're in the UK or abroad but Journal 73 was posted out about three weeks ago, Garry.
Posted by V on December 1, 2020
Is there a Billy Bob story about the light of the moon?
Posted by Karen on November 25, 2020
Hello there, I've recently been given some Noddy books and notice that the style of the front covers varies quite a bit. I can tell that none are 1st editions and are reprints. However, they seem very hard to date. Is it possible that anyone could help me please to date them by the style change on the front cover? Some have a seventies style font to the title of the book (similar to the Noel Edmonds Swap Shop font!) that either say Pictures by Beek or All Aboard for Toyland above the train. Some are more traditional looking as far as the lettering of the title is concerned but these also have the Pictures by Beek or All Aboard for Toyland differences. I would really appreciate any help as I'm very interested in learning about the subtle differences. Thank you so much.
Posted by Paul Austin on November 16, 2020
Does J. K. Rowing's claim that Julian (and other child characters) never aged, stack up? Darrell Rivers and her chums have to age or else Malory Towers is something out of the Twilight Zone and you're 12 when you start there and you are 12 when you finish.
Barney says: I think J. K. Rowling was probably referring to the fact that the Famous Five age incredibly slowly. The same applies to non-Blyton characters such as Malcolm Saville's Lone Piners and Antonia Forest's Marlows. Some characters in children's fiction don't appear to age at all, e.g. Rupert Bear and Richmal Crompton's William. The Malory Towers girls are different as they do get older each year and, at the end of the final book, leave the school to go to university.
Posted by T on November 16, 2020
Hi,Are the stories about Mistletoe Farm linked to Mistletoe Farm in Chudleigh, Devon? There is a local rumour which would be great to be verified.
Barney says: Unless there's an Enid Blyton letter that confirms the connection, I'm afraid it's doubtful. Enid Blyton was interested in nature from an early age and most of her fictional farms no doubt contain elements from various farms she knew or read about, altered by her imagination to suit the plot. In 1956 Enid and her husband Kenneth bought Manor Farm in Stourton Caundle, Dorset, and some features of that farm found their way into Five on Finniston Farm.
Posted by Ally May on November 10, 2020
Can you help me to locate a collection of stories? It may be a holiday book. It contains Green Eyes' Mistake, The Tale of Lanky Panky, The Magic Sweet Shop and many others. I would love to own a copy of this book.
Barney says: This is the book you're looking for, Ally Mally. You could keep an eye out on eBay and similar sites, or contact the sellers we list under 'Lashings of Links' (see button over on the left).
Posted by Carole Hobbs on November 7, 2020
Hi. Quick question. When is issue 73 of the Journal going to be despatched, please? This will be my third magazine. Will I be sent a request to renew my membership or will I need to rejoin? Thank you.
Barney says: Journal 73 is in the post and should be with you very soon, Carole! If it's your third magazine, there will be a slip inside it containing details of how to renew your subscription. Happy reading!
Posted by Laura on November 3, 2020
Hi, could anyone tell me if thereâs a story called The Fairyâs Lamplight? Would love to get it for my mum for Christmas to read with my nieces and nephews as sheâs always said how much she loved it as a little girl. But canât find it anywhere and not sure it even exists and maybe she's got the title wrong.
Barney says: I hope someone is able to help, Laura.
Posted by Tanya Cameron on November 2, 2020
What's the story where a child does a shoddy job and the adult finds out because he hid coins that the kid would have found?
Barney says: That's 'Tom the Scout-Cub'. It can be found in the book Tales at Bedtime (William Collins, 1961).
Posted by Tanya Cameron on October 27, 2020
If the Faraway Tree's Google Buns explode, shouldn't they injure your mouth in the same way as with food that is too hot?
Barney says: Google Buns don't explode. Each bun has a very large currant in the middle, filled with sherbet which fizzes in the mouth. Toffee Shocks grow bigger and explode, but they explode into nothing.
Posted by Kavita on October 26, 2020
Hello Barney, I remember reading as a child what I thought was a stand-alone Enid Blyton story and I canât remember the name. It had a little girl on some sort of quest and I recall she travelled on the back of a bird at some point. I think a cuckoo clock may have been involved. Am I imagining this?! Does this ring any bells? Best regards.
Barney says: There's a full-length stand-alone book called The Yellow Fairy Book (also published under the title The Queer Adventure) in which Mary and Peter seek refuge inside a giant cuckoo clock and spend the night with the cuckoo. The next morning, they fly off on the cuckoo's back to the Land of Storytellers. It's possible that there's a short story in which something similar happens, but I can't quite remember.
Posted by Tanya Cameron on October 22, 2020
Why is radio so important in a couple of Enid's tales?
Barney says: Radio was a major source of news, music and other information and entertainment before "video killed the radio star".
Posted by Sue on October 18, 2020
Hello, I have a copy of The Golliwog Grumbled with the black binding tape on the spine. I've read it is a reprint. Does anyone have any clue to the age of the book? Thanks in advance.
Barney says: The first edition of The Golliwog Grumbled (red spine, priced 1/6) was published in 1955. The reprint (shiny black spine, priced 2/-) came out in 1964.
Posted by Snehalatha Nair on October 15, 2020
As far as I know Enid Blyton has not written any book exclusively for girls. There are Round the Clock Stories, Rainy Day Stories, Chimney Corner Stories and several others with these striking names. Perhaps it could be one of these that Laura Allen (October 6) is looking for.
Posted by Kevin Rider on October 14, 2020
Did Enid Blyton write a short story called 'Left Handed Tumfry' please?
Barney says: No, but there's a book called Left-Handed Tumfy by Jane Shaw.
Posted by Tanya Cameron on October 13, 2020
Bah! Timmy the Dog is nothing without Michele Gallagher's George.
Posted by Paul Austin on October 11, 2020
Robert the bully in the Naughtiest Girl series had a lot of potential for exploration. Enid could have used the character to explore how boys were not allowed to express their feelings properly and how that often came out as violence.
Posted by Sourjya Saha on October 10, 2020
Can you please change your name to Timothy, Barney? I like him the best.
Barney says: To paraphrase the theme song of Barnaby Bear: "Barney the Dog I be,/Never call me Timothy..."
Posted by S on October 9, 2020
Hi, I was wondering about alterations to the words used in different editions of the Noddy books. I know that there is some controversy, but if anybody should know which years have been altered from the 1st edition, or more specifically where alterations have been made over the years, I would love to know.
Barney says: I'm pretty sure the Noddy books will have the original text if you stick to copies dating from 1985 or earlier, though I can't guarantee it. The 24 main titles originally featured a golly as one of the toys in the train on the cover, but gollies were removed from the books at some point (late 80s or early 90s, I think). Around the same time or perhaps slightly later, the language was modernised in some passages.
Posted by Estel on October 8, 2020
Can anyone tell me whether later Famous Five books had dark red covers for the first impression? Most of the first editions had light blue covers to distinguish them. Many thanks for any help. Even the original publishers do not know! P.S. That is definitely not Timmy.
Barney says: There's a forums thread about the boards of the Famous Five books here. Quite a lot of different colours were used for the boards over the years. Regarding your comment about Timmy, which depiction do you mean?
Posted by Laura Allen on October 6, 2020
Hi, I am desperately trying to find a book of short stories from I think around 1994-1997 called Enid Blyton's Stories for Girls? Does this ring any bells? It was quite a thick book with a pale cover. I would love to get a copy to keep or read to my little one. I loved it as a child and it would bring back so much nostalgia. 😊 Any help would be appreciated. x
Posted by Snehalatha Nair on October 6, 2020
Hi, I posted a comment a few days back but it hasn't been put up. I have been reading Enid Blyton books for more than half a century and still love them as they keep me so happy...far away from stress. I love you, Enid Blyton.
Barney says: Your comment was put up on 24th September, Snehalatha, but there have been quite a lot more messages since then.
Posted by Cath Jude on October 4, 2020
Hi. I have inherited 6 postcards and 2 letters from Enid Blyton to my Great Aunt and her pupils at St Mary's School in Harrington, Cumbria. I would like to sell them but would like to ensure that we use the right channel. Does anyone recommend a way of doing this, e.g. a specialist auction house or dealer? I don't want the set to be broken up if possible.
Posted by Pip on September 30, 2020
Hi Barney, Thanks, I did have them listed on Ebay but they got removed. Apparently the word and image are now against Ebay policy. Your website is great. Only just found it. Collected for 30 years but have had to reduce a lot. Won't part with my Barney books though...
Barney says: I didn't know about the new eBay policy. If you joined our discussion forums you could advertise your books in the 'For Sale' section, though of course we don't get huge numbers of visitors like eBay! As my name is Barney, I'm glad you're keeping your Barney books!
Posted by Pip on September 30, 2020
Can I ask how people sell/pass on books that might not be PC anymore from the 60s? I am reducing my collection via ebay and cannot list books like the three G......s on there. Please note no offence meant.
Barney says: I've just checked eBay and there are a couple of copies of The Three Golliwogs listed on there already so you shouldn't have any problem listing yours.
Posted by Sheldon Cole on September 28, 2020
When were the Famous Five books first âeditedâ for political correctness etc? Do the paperback versions from the 1970s feature the original texts?
Barney says: The paperbacks from the 1970s have a few very minor edits, e.g. shorts are sometimes replaced by jeans and the reference to television being a novelty (Five on Kirrin Island Again) has been toned down. These changes were made to stop the books feeling dated, rather than for reasons of political correctness. Later on, lots more alterations were made - particularly in 1997 and 2010. Current editions have reverted to the 1997 text as the 2010 modernisation of the language was felt to be a mistake.
Posted by Garvit on September 27, 2020
Hi , I just wanted to know that when do we receive the journals as I just subscribed.
Barney says: Your first Journal was posted to you a few days ago, but it will take a little while to reach you.
Posted by Wolfgang on September 27, 2020
@Phil: Actually there's the book At Seaside Cottage in which the story 'Annabel's Thimble' can be found. It features a silver thimble which a jackdaw took away and which finds its way into the Christmas pudding.This book also features the three-parter 'At Seaside Cottage' which can be considered to be a prequel to the Secret Seven books because the main characters are Peter and Janet.
Posted by Vrushali Patil on September 24, 2020
Hi, I was wondering if you have the Famous Five Adventure Magazine series of 1986? I believe there were 16 issues.
Barney says: There were 17 issues altogether, Vrushali, though the pilot issue wasn't numbered. The magazine began publication in 1985 and ran until the end of 1986.
Posted by Phil on September 24, 2020
Thank you for your quick reply Barney. I must be ''barking up the wrong tree"! I'm 67 years young now so it must have been in the late 50s or early 60s I recall this (perhaps mistakenly!) I have been through all the Five, Seven and Find-Outers synopses. My first two hardbacks were The Boy Next Door and The Treasure Hunters. Still have them. Happy days!
Barney says: It's good that you've kept your childhood books all these years, Phil.
Posted by Snehalatha Nair on September 24, 2020
After a long time I am back but all along I have been reading my beloved Enid Blyton books. I am on to the St Clare's series. Love you Blyton.
Barney says: I'm glad the books are still giving you so much pleasure, Snehalatha Nair!
Posted by Phil on September 22, 2020
I still have at the back of my mind an Enid Blyton story about children who find a diamond ring in a Christmas cracker...I just cannot find a Five, Seven or Find-Outers story that fits this memory! Can anyone help this poor tormented soul?!
Barney says: I don't recall an Enid Blyton story like that, Phil, but a number of continuation books were written by people like Claude Voilier and Evelyne Lallemand so perhaps the incident happened in one of those? (It's only a suggestion - I have to admit I've only read a few of the Voilier Famous Fives and Lallemand Secret Sevens).
Posted by David on September 17, 2020
Has Child Whispers ever been reprinted? Also who owns the copyright or is it in the public domain now? Surely it deserves a 100 year reprint in a couple of years.
Barney says: There's an interesting forums thread on that topic, David!
Posted by Craig on September 12, 2020
Surely it's Binky, the pixie. Not Chinky!
Barney says: If you're talking about the Wishing-Chair series, the pixie is called Chinky. However, the publishers sometimes make alterations so it's possible that the pixie's name has been changed to Binky in modern editions. Edit: I've been able to check the current edition of Adventures of the Wishing-Chair and the pixie's name is indeed Binky now, rather than Chinky! I don't know when the alteration was made.
Posted by Wolfgang on September 8, 2020
@ Nicholas Carding: You might try to find "DE FEM" DVD-BOKS. The box contains all 26 episodes in English, subtitles are available in Swedish, Danish, Norwegian and Finnish.It was published in 2006 by ZDF Enterprises.
Barney says: Thanks, Wolfgang!
Posted by Nicholas Carding on September 5, 2020
Hi everyone. I am very keen to buy the complete collection of the Famous Five TV series from 1997 (starring Jemima Rooper, Marco Williamson, Paul Child and Laura Petela). Does anyone know how/where I can source this? I have looked on Amazon/Ebay, but nowhere seems to have the complete series - unless it's a Dutch product with Five Go to Smuggler's Top missing!
Barney says: I believe that only Five on a Treasure Island was ever released on DVD in the UK, unfortunately.
Posted by William Moore on August 31, 2020
Hi Barney,I'm currently doing research on Darrell Waters Ltd, Enid Blyton's company, and was surprised to learn that Eric Rogers was the managing director. Please can you tell me when he died and whether it was before or after the passing of Enid Blyton in 1968.Many thanks,William
Barney says: Eric Rogers died in 1980, William. George Greenfield, Enid Blyton's literary agent, writes in his book Enid Blyton that Eric Rogers' behaviour was questionable and that he borrowed an enormous amount of money from the company with no intention of repaying the loan.
Posted by Scot on August 25, 2020
Hi, Barney. Can you still buy Round the Clock Stories and The Children at Green Meadows? I did so love them as a young boy and now I want to buy them for my young cousin - he loves Enid Blyton. And can you still buy Six Cousins at Mistletoe Farm and Six Cousins Again? He really loved them!
Barney says: I'm not sure whether those books are currently in print, Scot, but you could check by looking for them in bookshops or on websites. If not, there should be plenty of secondhand copies available online. They're super books and it's a pity that so many people only know about Enid Blyton's major series such as Malory Towers and the Famous Five.
Posted by Barbara Asquith on August 25, 2020
Thank you. Glad I'm a dog person :)
Barney says: It's the next best thing to being a dog! ;-)
Posted by Barbara Asquith on August 23, 2020
Does listening to the radio or watching television happen much in the stories? What about recorded music?
Barney says: If you search the forums for threads like 'Modern Times' and 'Enid and the changing world', you'll see that there are quite a few references.
Posted by Denise on August 17, 2020
Hi, I came across the Enid Blyton Treasure Trove book (1997?), but this title isn't listed in the site (or at least I was unsuccessful at locating the link for it). Goodreads also does not have much information on this specific title, do you have more information on this "omnibus", and how it differs from the usual Awards Publication titles and from the usual stand-alone books (as far as I'm able to tell, the standout feature is that this book has colour illustrations)?It contains 8 stories including "The Fairy Kitten", "The Silver Merman" , "Look out Busy-body", "Peronel's Magic Polish", etc.
Barney says: Although we list as many titles as possible in the Cave of Books, including all the books that were published in Enid Blyton's lifetime as well as numerous more modern editions, the short stories have been repackaged so many times that not all the collections appear in the Cave, I'm afraid.
Posted by Emily on August 12, 2020
Hi Barney, I was just wondering which mystery books by Enid Blyton you recommend. I have already read the Secret Series, Famous Five and Secret Seven, so it would be nice to read some others as well!
Barney says: If you like mystery and adventure you may enjoy the Adventure series (starting with The Island of Adventure), the Find-Outers series (starting with The Mystery of the Burnt Cottage) and the Barney series (starting with The Rockingdown Mystery), Emily. Happy Reading!
Posted by Barbara Asquith on August 11, 2020
What's the story where the old man asked a kid to clean up for him and had hidden coins as a reward if he did a good job?
Barney says: You might be thinking of 'Tom the Scout-Cub', Barbara. It was published in Tales at Bedtime (Collins, 1961).
Posted by Scates on August 11, 2020
Could an expert on the Enid Blyton books kindly tell me if any of her books and articles contain matters relating to hop picking in the 1940s/1950s time frame? Thank you for reading this. Brian Scates
Barney says: I don't recall any references to hop picking, Brian, but if anyone knows of any I hope they'll post a reply.
Posted by Liz on August 10, 2020
I remember a story about a rabbit called Mr Woofles. Was it written by Enid Blyton?
Barney says: As I'm a dog, I think "Mr Woofles" is a fantastic name! However, I only remember rabbits called "Mr Woffles" in Enid Blyton stories. One is in 'Little Mr Woffles' and the other is a toy rabbit in 'The Rabbit's Whiskers'. If you put the titles into the search box in the Cave of Books, you'll see which books they appeared in.
Posted by DC on August 8, 2020
Can you please tell me in what time the Famous Five books are set. I can't seem to find anything online which says they're set in the 1930s but with the first book being published in 1942, I assume they're set in an earlier time. Many thanks for any help you can give.
Barney says: The Famous Five books were set roughly at the time they were written, DC, though reality was tweaked so that no war was going on in the early books and the children only aged a few years despite the fact that the series ran from 1942 to 1963. Dates were kept vague and Enid Blyton avoided referencing current affairs, giving the stories a timeless quality.
Posted by Tel on August 6, 2020
Could you tell me the name of any books (if any) that aid in the identification points of (true) Enid Blyton first editions? Thanks.
Barney says: I'd recommend Tony Summerfield's Enid Blyton - an Illustrated Bibliography, published in 4 parts. Volumes 2, 3 and 4 are still available to Society members from our Online Shop (see button over on the left).
Posted by Paul on August 5, 2020
Is there anywhere I can purchase the Adventure Series of books for my granddaughter illustrated by Stuart Tresilian?
Barney says: Stuart Tresilian's illustrations were removed from the Adventure books some years ago, Paul, but you should be able to find illustrated secondhand copies in good condition.
Posted by Sue on August 4, 2020
What are good Blyton stories to read to a 4 year old boy?
Barney says: Many of the mixed short story collections would be good, as well as the Noddy books and the Amelia Jane stories.
Posted by O on August 4, 2020
I am trying to make a connection between Enid Blyton and Sri Lanka. I am sure she visited. Can you help?
Barney says: Enid Blyton didn't visit Sri Lanka, I'm afraid.
Posted by Angela on July 30, 2020
What are good Blyton stories to read to a (female) child between 6 and 8?
Barney says: Lots of Enid Blyton's books are great for children of that age, e.g. most short story collections, The Enid Blyton Book of Brownies, the Faraway Tree and Wishing-Chair series, the Willow Farm books, the Galliano's Circus series and stories about characters like Mr. Pink-Whistle and Mr. Meddle.
Posted by Sarah on July 29, 2020
I have around 150 books all varying in age, not sure if to keep or sell. Depends what they'd be worth. Anyone have any idea where best to sell?
Barney says: You could try a secondhand book dealer or list them on eBay.
Posted by Sandra Milton on July 22, 2020
Hi. A few years back I was looking for a nonsense poem. I am sure I read about it on this forum. It was about two creatures who lived on a mountain top and put knife & folks under the fender. It was said it was by Edward Lear, but I cannot find it in any of his books. Some people thought it was Enid Blyton. Can anyone help me please?
Barney says: I don't recall hearing about that poem but I hope someone will be able to help, Sandra. Was it "knife & folks" or "knives and forks"?!
Posted by Enid on July 20, 2020
I hope you can help me. I am sure I remember an Enid Blyton story called 'There and Back Again' about a brother and sister who go to look for medicine for their sick mother. There is a part where they are looking for cake in a magic cake shop and a forest of mushrooms and they end up in a land of clouds and books. I have searched everywhere but can find no reference to this story...am I crazy?
Barney says: I don't know this story, I'm afraid, but I hope someone recognises it.
Posted by Barbara on July 19, 2020
Is Mr Meddle intellectually disabled? I can't understand him.
Barney says: There are some thoughtful appraisals of Meddle here which may help you understand him better.
Posted by Myke on July 17, 2020
Hi, I have almost 170 original first editions. I want to get them insured but Iâm not sure how much they will be worth. I have all the main series. All complete. Any ideas?
Posted by Cliff Watkins on July 16, 2020
I wish to purchase a copy of the Enid Blyton Society Journal for Spring 2013. Thank you. Cliff Watkins, EBS Member.
Barney says: Thanks, Cliff. You can order that particular Journal here (select 'Add to basket' which is highlighted in red).
Posted by Carrie Drake on July 13, 2020
I am hoping someone remembers a story that fairies hide their slippers/shoes in the centre of Queen Anne's Lace...thus the hidden red or ruby dot in the centre. If anyone can help with this obscure search I would appreciate it. Unfortunately I gifted the book the story was in. It was an anthology of charming stories that I read to my children in the 80s. Thank you, Carrie.
Barney says: The only story I can think of along those lines is 'A Fairy Secret', in which fairy folk hide their dancing-sandals in the white dead-nettle. Enid Blyton says, "If you want to see them, go and hunt for the big white dead-nettle flowers that grow everywhere by the fields and hedges and waysides. Look inside the flowers, but look in the top of the flower, not the bottom - and there, neatly arranged in pairs, you will see the hidden goldy sandals of the little folk!" The story can be found in these books.
Posted by Barbara on July 12, 2020
How long do lands stay at the top of the Faraway Tree?
Barney says: There's no set time. Sometimes the main characters get stuck in a land because they didn't realise it was moving on.
Posted by Prakul on July 11, 2020
Hey Barney! I don't know if you remember me or not, but I used to write to you often back in 2011! I was just 7 years old back then, fascinated by Enid Blyton's stories, and I am so proud to say that I still am! Anyway I am 16 years old now in the 11th grade, quarantined in this house. This quarantine gave me a lot of time on my hands, I started thinking about how much I loved reading Enid Blyton's books and then I thought of you! And I wondered if you still answered questions the way you used to, so arrived at this wonderful website to find out, to my delight, that you still do! Anyways, I just wanted to thank you for making my childhood so amazing and making me fall in love with reading!
Barney says: A wuff of greeting to you, Prakul! I remember you posting and it's lovely to hear from you again. I hope your love of reading is helping you in this time of quarantine.
Posted by G on July 8, 2020
Where can I purchase a full set of Famous Five books with the original text and illustrations ?
Barney says: You'll need to look for secondhand copies on sites like eBay, Amazon, etc. Copies dating from before about 1965 should have the original text - though even then it's possible that a handful of very minor changes might have been made, e.g. "King" to "Queen". From early on, various editions had different numbers of the Eileen Soper illustrations with different tones of colour.
Posted by Amy on July 7, 2020
I'm trying to find a story in which a little girl isn't very clever so never is the best at anything. She eventually wins a prize for being the neatest. It had a beautiful picture of her and I remember her having a very neat bob, a knee-length skirt and I think she had a little cross-body handbag. My mum said the story was by Enid Blyton but I've looked everywhere and can't find anything that is ringing any bells. I've found one similar in which a girl is ill so misses a lot of school but that's not the one I'm remembering. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.
Barney says: That does sound like an Enid Blyton story, Amy, but at the moment I can't place it. I do recall one story about a girl who isn't very clever but is awarded a prize for being kind ('She was Always at the Bottom') and another about a boy who "isn't much good at anything except gardening" but is chosen to present the Duchess with some of the flowers he has grown ('Bottom of the Class!')
Posted by Kate Mary on July 5, 2020
The book EB is looking for is The Yellow Fairy Book also known as The Queer Adventure. Later editions have other titles too.
Barney says: Thank you, Kate Mary!
Posted by Mrs Pam Wells on July 5, 2020
Please can you tell me if the book containing 'King Bom's Ice-Cream' is still available to buy. It was my daughter's favourite story and I would dearly like to buy it for my grandchild.
Barney says: I've just checked and the story doesn't appear to be in print at the moment. However, it appeared in these books and many of them will be available secondhand from sites like eBay and Amazon.
Posted by EB on July 4, 2020
Thank you Barney!Would you mind another question? Again from a book for younger children, I think, where two children hide in a cuckoo clock and the cuckoo takes them to a cave with diamonds (or something to that effect).
Barney says: I hope someone recognises the story, EB.
Posted by Paula on July 1, 2020
I have just acquired a limited edition of the Famous Five 3-act play for my daughter. It is one of 350 worldwide. Does anyone have a background to it and its value?
Barney says: The book you've acquired has a foreword that gives the background to the play, Paula. I'm afraid I've no idea of the value but it was published in 2000.
Posted by Bezzer on June 28, 2020
Thank you Barney for the information and your very speedy reply. The back cover has a printed advert for six books in the series of Enid Blyton's 2/6 gift books so it's not a first edition after all. I'm sure it will still be well cared for when I pass it on. Yes, I had made an error on the first message. Just as well you were able to translate. Thanks again. B
Barney says: Cheers, Bezzer. The Animal Book is lovely and packed with information and I'm sure it will be cherished when you pass it on.
Posted by Bezzer on June 28, 2020
I have had an Enid Blyton book in my possession for several years and now wish to give it to my young granddaughter. It's The Animal Book, issued in 1927. The person it was bought Forefield it in 1930. Looking at the book on the website I think this may be a first edition. It's been written inside the cover with pencil. How can I check if it is a first edition?
Barney says: Tony Summerfield's An Illustrated Bibliography says that the back cover of the first edition has an advert for five Gift Books, with Birds, Bunnies and Fairies being pictured. The book was issued with a pictureboard cover and matching dustwrapper, and the price was 3/6. (By the way, I'm not sure that your third sentence came out the way you meant it to!)
Posted by David Cox on June 28, 2020
Hello. I am very interested in buying some of the GWR, Famous Five posters. Can anyone tell me where I could buy them? Will be much appreciated. With regards, David.
Posted by EB on June 27, 2020
Hello, I'm trying to find an Enid Blyton book (possibly a collection of short stories) where the story was something like: Some children get new neighbours, one of whom is a boy. They throw a ball into the neighbour's house, and the boy, who is seated in the garden at the time, remains seated and doesn't make a move to return the ball. This annoys the children, until they find out that he is in a wheelchair. Would anyone happen to know this book? Thank you in advance!
Barney says: The story is called 'The Boy Next Door', though the boy (John) is not in a wheelchair. He can't get up from his chair in the garden to return the ball (or a balloon the following day) because he is recovering from a sprained ankle. If you put the title into the search box in our Cave of Books, you'll see which books it appeared in. Just in case it causes confusion, there's also a full-length novel called The Boy Next Door but it's nothing to do with the short story.
Posted by Catherine on June 19, 2020
Regarding Mark Dodd's query it might be a good idea to post on the forum of comicsuk.co.uk. They have a section devoted to girls' comics and might be able to help.
Barney says: Thank you, Catherine.
Posted by Mark Dodd on June 19, 2020
Hello!I'm looking for an edition of Princess Magazine that contains a story about a girl winning Wimbledon. Does anyone have any ideas?I'm writing an article on Evonne Goolagong and she has publicly statesd:"I read this Princess Magazine story. One story was about this girl who trained and was taken to this place called Wimbledon where she won on this magical court."
Posted by N on June 17, 2020
Thank you for your response. I mean the characters that are not round from chapter 1 to chapter 3.
Posted by N on June 16, 2020
Can I have some help? I am struggling to find the flat characters for Five on a Treasure Island.
Barney says: Do you mean characters who aren't rounded? The men who want to buy the island may come into that category, along with minor characters like Alf the fisher-boy.
Posted by Judith Crabb on June 16, 2020
Thanks, Barney. How I wish I'd known this fifty years ago when I started out on my career as second-hand book seller. I would have looked far more closely at the Birn publications which came through my hands. As it is, I can remember one Birn - a small copy of Bimbo the Kitten. The story seemed a bit sort on detail and I was afraid that it was incomplete. When I bought the box of books at auction I didn't know Bimbo was in it as it just looked like stray pages before I lovingly re-constructed it (having seen Blyton's name). I found out from your Cave of Books that there was an earlier (presumably longer) version.
Barney says: That's interesting, Judith. A lot more is known about Enid Blyton's Birn books now, thanks mainly to Tony Summerfield and David Chambers.
Posted by Judith Crabb on June 15, 2020
I visited the Cave of Books to look at the Birn publications. I'm puzzled. Are these ALL by Enid Blyton? And if so how can you tell?Delightful covers I must say.
Barney says: Yes, Enid Blyton did a surprising amount of work for Birn! We know which books she wrote/contributed to because a) Sometimes her name is printed inside and b) She noted the titles and the payments she received in her workbook. From her workbook, we can see that there are further books out there which we hope will be found and catalogued eventually!
Posted by Joni de Ruyter on June 12, 2020
Iâm wondering if you can tell me if the book, âThe Little White Bed that Ran Awayâ is available?
Barney says: Do you mean The Bed that Ran Away and Other Stories, Joni? We don't sell Enid Blyton books but copies should be available from sites like Amazon or eBay (secondhand copies if it's out of print).
Posted by Tix on June 11, 2020
After reading that Bets' admiration for Winston Churchill had been removed from later editions of The Mystery of the Missing Necklace, one can only assume that more and more of the Blyton scripts are being tampered with as the world continues on its politically correct path. My copy contains two pictures of the exhibition although I canât see Churchill himself among the figures - but he's certainly mentioned. Why would the reference have been erased, I wonder?
Barney says: Unfortunately, publishers over the years have removed references that they consider outdated in an attempt to keep the books "relevant". However, since the Find-Outers series revolves around an old-fashioned village with a bobby on the beat, errand boys on bicycles, cooks, maids, breakfast gongs, landline phones, ice-creams at the dairy, copious utterances of "I say" and no internet, it doesn't make sense to erase such details.
Posted by Harry James on June 10, 2020
Hi Barney! I'm trying to activate my forums account - but it says my email address is already in use. It is my email address, but I can't change it - I'm not sure what to do. Yours, Harry.
Barney says: I think you were trying to use your forums account before it had been approved, Harry! It has now been approved and you should be able to use it. Enjoy the forums!
Posted by D on June 10, 2020
Is Bets talking about Winston Churchill still in current editions of the Five Find-Outers books?
Barney says: There is still a waxwork figure of Winston Churchill at the fair in The Mystery of the Missing Necklace but the part about Bets admiring Churchill and having a photo of him on her mantelpiece has been removed.
Posted by D on June 9, 2020
Who owns the copyrights to which Blyton characters?
Barney says: Hachette UK own the copyright to all Enid Blyton characters except Noddy. DreamWorks Classics own the copyright to Noddy.
Posted by Harry James on June 9, 2020
Hello Barney! Love this website - I'm going to become a member today!My favourite Blyton books are the Famous Five (probably). Have you got The Famous Five's Survival Guide in stock? Thanks!
Barney says: Have fun on the website and forums, Harry! I'm afraid we don't sell Enid Blyton books but you could look for a copy of The Famous Five's Survival Guide on sites like eBay or Amazon.
Posted by John Rees on June 5, 2020
Thank you Barney. Winter 2006. Found it straight away. Really appreciate the prompt reply. Best wishes, John
Barney says: Glad to be of help, John!
Posted by John Rees on June 5, 2020
Hello. A tall order... I have nearly all my Journals going back to almost the beginning. I'm looking for the handwritten letter that mentions an island off Jersey as the inspiration for Kirrin Castle. So far scanning through I can't find it. If anyone remembers which Journal I'd appreciate it. I seem to be missing three. In the house 'somewhere'.... Hope it isn't one of those. Thank you. John
Barney says: The Journal you want is Number 31, John, pages 14-15. The key part of the letter (which is dated July 3rd, 1962) reads: "I will see if I can put the 'Five' on Kirrin Island again for you. It was an island I once visited several times when I was in Jersey - it lay off the coast & could only be reached either by boat or by a rocky path exposed when the tide was out. It had an old castle there and I longed to put the island & castle into a book. So I did, as you know!"
Posted by Ms Lim on June 5, 2020
I have subscribed to be a member, however, I am not able to log in. I have tried Journal 71 but could not find page 84 for the password to log in. Please advise. Thank you. Kind Regards, Ms Lim
Barney says: The pages of the Journal are numbered in the top middle so it's possible to miss seeing the numbers if you're just flicking through. The password is the very first word on page 84.
Posted by Laura on May 28, 2020
I'm trying to find an Enid Blyton book of stories from my childhood. The book definitely contained 'The Runaway Shoes' but also a story about a child who drinks paint water thinking it's a special blackcurrant medicine or herbal remedy. Does this ring any bells for anyone? Many thanks.
Barney says: The story about the boy who drinks paint water is 'He Was a Bit Too Quick' (retitled 'George's Sore Throat' in some short story collections). If you put the titles into the search box in our Cave of Books, you can see which books contained both tales.
Posted by Doreen Hartley on May 28, 2020
I noted a query about a poem, the story of Percival Peeps. I too have been searching for this poem. I last read it In the mid 50s. Any information you have would be greatly welcomed.
Barney says: I believe that 'Percival Peeps' is by Mabel Lucie Attwell.
Posted by Judith Crabb on May 19, 2020
Are any back issues of the Journal for sale? I'm interested in No. 31 which has an article by Tony on the Hackett publications. If it's available how do I go about ordering it?Thanks.
Barney says: I'm afraid Journal 31 sold out some time ago, Judith, but I know you're aware that there are two relevant topics in the forums which are active at the moment ('Hackett Books' and 'Bob the Little Jockey/Letter to Australian PM'). The latter contains a link to the letter that was published in Journal 31.
Posted by Pauline Roper on May 19, 2020
I remember Mum reading me a story in the late 50s that I think was called 'Rubbalong and the Magic Rubber'. All I can remember of the story is this dialogue...'"Headache indeed! I expect you've given it to yourself!" And with a snort, Dutch Doll walked off, quite forgetting about Pink Elephant (or Pink Teddy Bear).' Anyone know the story and if it's still possible to get a copy? Thanks!
Posted by Steve on May 18, 2020
Hello! My wife and I have just finished reading Five on a Treasure Island to our children, their first taste of the Famous Five, and they loved it! My mum luckily kept all of my childhood copies of the books, so we are now onto number two. I can't think of better books for lockdown!I still have my Famous Five Club membership card and badge at my parents' house, which I'll show my children when we can visit them. I wonder if anyone knows when the club finished? I was a member in the early 1980s, but cannot find much about it online. My children would love to have joined. Best wishes. Steve.
Barney says: It's lovely to hear that the Famous Five books are bringing your family so much pleasure during lockdown, Steve. The Famous Five Club closed sometime in the early 1990s, unfortunately, but your children could always design their own Famous Five-themed badges!
Posted by Nic on May 18, 2020
Hello, I am wondering if there are any educational activities/resources based on the Adventurous Four book?
Barney says: I don't know of any, Nic, but you could always invent your own. Possible activities that come to mind include writing a diary in the role of one of the characters; doing a project about wildlife on Scottish islands or about Scottish islands in the Second World War; building a raft (either a real one or a model); reading other "shipwreck" stories or extracts from them (e.g. Robinson Crusoe); writing your own "shipwreck" story; designing your own dustwrapper for the book complete with blurb; writing a review; examining the language of the book and discussing how words and expressions have changed over time; discussing what makes a good beginning, middle and end and applying that to The Adventurous Four; drawing a map of the islands; turning all or part of the book into a playscript and acting it out...
Posted by L on May 17, 2020
Hello, am wondering if anyone can help please. Trying to remember the name of a story I read as a child, was possibly in a book of short stories. Was about a family of 3 or 4 children. The youngest was a boy (possibly called Benjy?). One day he got really cross about something and threw his teddy in the brook running through their garden. He was sent to bed and later went to find the teddy and thought it was lost but his sister had saved it and pegged it up to dry. Any ideas? Hopefully Iâve remembered it correctly! Thanks in advance.
Barney says: The Happy House Children Again is about a little boy named Benjy and his older brother and sister, Jack and Jane. At one point the toy monkey called 'Monkey' (not a teddy) ends up in the stream in the garden and Benjy blames Jane. He gets very angry and is sent to bed. Later, he learns that Monkey has been pegged to the washing-line to dry. Jane fetches Monkey for him. The story can be found in The Happy House Children Again. It can also be found (probably more easily and more cheaply) in The Happy House Children published by Collins, which contains that book and its sequel in one volume. Another way of getting most of the chapters from that book, including the monkey episode, is to read Happy Hours Story Book published by Dean & Son, which also contains a few short stories that are nothing to do with Happy House. If you put the titles of those books into the search box in our Cave of Books, you can see the covers.
Posted by Great Grimbles on May 10, 2020
I would like to order three of Enid Blytonâs Malory Towers books from the series: Second Form, Third Year and Upper Forth at Malory Towers.I canât see how to do this online! Please help. Regards, Mrs. A.9.
Barney says: I'm afraid we don't sell Enid Blyton books but they should be available from eBay, Amazon or the sellers we list under Lashings of Links.
Posted by Zainab on May 9, 2020
Hi everyone! There's a story about a baker whose bakery isnât running well and hence he is in dismay. So in the bakerâs window display, brownies or elves or pixies or fairies (I really canât recall) magically make the most scrumptious-looking bakery goods and the baker's business goes up... but eventually the baker becomes mean or something and refuses to give a poor fellow bread or something. Can someone please help jog my memory? Thank you!
Posted by Sam on May 5, 2020
Hi, I'm trying to find a Mr. Meddle short story (I want to read them all) by Enid Blyton named 'Are You Crazy, Mr. Meddle!' in one of the publications - Enid Blyton's Magazine No.7 Vol.3 and Mr. Meddle Short Story Character Booklet No.2 - listed on this website, but have been unsuccessful in locating a copy of either online to buy. Can you please help by telling me where I can find one, or if this short story is available in another publication, and if so what it is called? Thanks kindly.
Barney says: I'm afraid it looks as though the story isn't available anywhere else, Sam. You could keep an eye out on eBay, or contact the sellers we list under Lashings of Links.
Posted by Tracey K on May 5, 2020
Hi. I wonder if you can help. I'm trying to locate a book for my mum. Her favourite tale is 'It Isn't Your Birthday'. I've managed to find it in a Sunny Stories magazine but she is adamant it was in a hardback book full of various stories, one being a Brer Rabbit tale. She says she thinks there may be a picture on the front of a boy going down a slide but then again she may have got that wrong.I'd love to find this elusive book. Can you help at all? Many thanks.
Barney says: It doesn't have a slide on the cover but maybe your mum is thinking of the Jack and Jill All Colour Gift Book (1950), Tracey.
Posted by Rachel on May 4, 2020
Thank you, Barney, you have made my day!!!
Barney says: Glad to be of help. Locating a story always puts a wag in my tail!
Posted by Rachel on May 4, 2020
Hello, can you help with identifying an Enid Blyton story about a boy called Henry who ate sweets/letters that spelt 'HEN' and changed him into a hen, before he ate the 'R' and the 'Y'? Some 50 years have passed since I was read the story, and I can't track it down. Any help gratefully received!
Barney says: Ah yes - that's 'The Magic Toffee' from Twenty-Minute Tales. The pieces of toffee are in the form of alphabet letters. A marvellous story, though it's lucky that children called Angela and Godfrey didn't do likewise - or Penny, who would have turned into a pen and couldn't have carried on eating any more toffee!
Posted by Sue on May 3, 2020
Hi Barney, I wrote to you many years ago, regarding obtaining a copy of a letter from Enid Blyton to my distant cousin Hilda Rice, who was one of Enid's illustrators. I received a copy, but recently my computer went KAPUT! and I unfortunately lost the information. :o( Is there any way you could send me a copy? I believe it was published in the Spring 2010 Journal. Happy to pay any expenses...bones...belly rubs...Thank you x
Barney says: I'm wagging my tail by way of greeting, Sue! I've passed your query on to someone who may be able to help and you should be receiving an email in the near future.
Posted by Lizzy on May 3, 2020
Hello, can you help me to find Peterswood? I'm going to Marlow later in the year with my book, Looking for Enid. Any tips, please?
Barney says: It's thought that Enid Blyton may have had Bourne End (or Well End) in mind when writing about Peterswood, though a lot of details would have come from her imagination. She and Hugh lived at Old Thatch, Coldmoorholme Lane, for nine years.
Posted by L on May 2, 2020
Many children are not read to at home. I work in a school and want to record myself reading The Enchanted Wood for the use of the schoolchildren while they are in lock down at home, so they have a familiar voice in uncertain times.Does anyone know if I need permission please and if so, where do I get the permission to do so?It's still my favourite book series and the one which captured my imagination as a child! Thank you.
Barney says: The Enchanted Wood is a wonderful book. As I just said to Ken, Hachette UK own the Enid Blyton copyright so you could check with them.
Posted by Ken Oliver on May 1, 2020
Hello, I work for Suffolk Libraries, Hadleigh branch. During lockdown we are trying to maintain a service via digital media - story time, nursery rhymes, etc. I would like to read some of the Pip the pixie stories for our library Facebook page. Do I need permission from the most recent publisher to share these stories? Many thanks, Ken.
Barney says: Hachette UK own the Enid Blyton copyright, Ken, so you could check with them. The stories of Pip are a great way of encouraging children to take an interest in nature.
Posted by Ed Oborn on April 30, 2020
I hope you can help me. I am looking for a book/annual which contains the story 'The Magnificent Treacle Pudding'. It was my favourite during my childhood. Can you guide me please?I believe that it was in the 6th Holiday Book in 1952 but I am not sure. It must have been around 1951 that I first heard it. Many thanks, Ed.
Barney says: 'The Magnificent Treacle Pudding' is a great story, Ed. You're right that it was in The Sixth Holiday Book as well as other books that can be seen here.
Posted by Dave on April 29, 2020
Hello Barney, The stories in the book My Favourite Enid Blyton Story Book 1964, are they exclusive to that book, or are they extracts from previous Blyton books? Thank you. Stay safe.
Barney says: The contents of that book were taken from The Big Enid Blyton Book (Paul Hamlyn, 1961).
Posted by Kay on April 28, 2020
I have a copy of Noddy Makes a Mistake, 1953, for sale.
Barney says: Please get back to me and let me know if it's okay to add your email address to your message so people can contact you. Alternatively, you could join the forum and advertise your book in the 'For Sale' section.
Posted by Namesha on April 26, 2020
I really like all Enid Blyton books.
Posted by Kimelyn on April 25, 2020
In answer to Ellie about The Famous Five's Survival Guide: You can see a copy of the 'code reader' here. Otherwise I have found 2 answers as to where the dragon is hidden = "inside a stone they thought was a marker", and "at the top right hand side on the rising sun wall. It is the very top and very last brick on the right side". Hope this helps.
Barney says: Thank you, Kimelyn!
Posted by Ellie P on April 24, 2020
I have been reading The Famous Five's Survival Guide, but the website it gives at the end (www.famousfive.co.uk) doesn't seem to exist and that means I don't know the answer to the riddle of the Royal Dragon of Siam! So frustrating! Do you know the answer?
Barney says: That does sound frustrating. I hope someone is able to help, Ellie.
Posted by Jess on April 23, 2020
Hi, I was wondering if someone can help. I have just bought parts 2-4 of the Tony Summerfield Enid Blyton bibliography from the online shop, but have not been able to find part one anywhere! Does anyone have any suggestions, please? Thanks.
Posted by Sarah on April 21, 2020
Hi, I'm hoping you can answer a question for me. I am a Year 2 teacher and would love to make a recording of The Enchanted Wood and share it with my class on our home learning platform. Do you know if there are any copyright restrictions on me doing this? Many thanks.
Barney says: Sounds like a super idea, Sarah, but it may be worth checking with the copyright holders (Hachette UK) just in case.
Posted by Rebecca on April 21, 2020
Hi Kim, That's perfect! Thank you very much for finding this verse for us. This was the one recited (many a time!) by my 95-year-old father-in-law, who had read this book to his two young sons. Cheers, Rebecca.
Barney says: It's lovely to hear back from you, Rebecca. Wishing you and your family all the best.
Posted by Kim on April 20, 2020
I hope the following lines help, Rebecca, (found in messages from 2016): "We're off to the station to wait for the train,/ We all want to catch it you see./ There's Miss Fluffy Cat and Wobbly Man/ And Golly and Monkey and me./ Look, here comes the train, oh what a surprise,/ Just look who's driving today./ It's our Little Noddy, he's there in the cab/ He shouts, 'I'm the driver, hooray!'"
Barney says: Well done on finding that, Kim! A hearty wag of the tail to you!
Posted by tix on April 20, 2020
Never seen Noddy's Toyland Train before. A 1961 date hints the poem might be from an earlier publication - but that doesn't seem to be the case because I've searched through a pile of books in vain. It's still available however.... but for a price!
Posted by Tix on April 20, 2020
Noddy in Toyland contains a ditty entitled 'Song of the Toyland Train' - but not with "We're off to the station to wait ... etc," so maybe a book-title recollection is required. The Noddy in Toyland song begins thus: "Oh isn't it fun when the Toyland Train goes huffing and puffing along ..."
Barney says: Thanks, Tix, but Rebecca gave the book title as Noddy's Toyland Train. There's a picture of the cover in the Cave of Books.
Posted by Rebecca Rose on April 20, 2020
Hello! We would love to see a copy of the verse within Noddy's ToylandTrain: 'We're off to the station to wait for the train, We all want to catch it you see...' Even just a few lines, to use in the funeral service for my father-in-law who often quoted it. Can anybody help with this? Would be much appreciated. Kind regards, Rebecca.
Barney says: I hope someone is able to help, Rebecca. All the best to the whole family with your father-in-law's funeral. Quoting from the Noddy book is a lovely idea.
Posted by Jess on April 15, 2020
Just wondering if anyone knows of any reference books in existence detailing all of Enid Blyton's books and how to check whether they are first editions or not. E.g. different dust jackets etc. I am trying to collect the books as they were a childhood favourite, but it seems it's a bit of a minefield trying to work out if they are genuine first editions/first impressions or not! Thanks in advance.
Barney says: Tony Summerfield's Enid Blyton: An Illustrated Bibliography (four volumes) gives a comprehensive overview of first editions of Blyton books, Jess. If you click on our "Online Shop" button you'll see that volumes 2 - 4 are still available to buy. Volume 1 has sold out but may be available secondhand from sites like eBay.
Posted by Mags on April 15, 2020
What are the rest of the words of the poem, "This is the story of Percival Peeps who wanted so badly a fairy for keeps..."?
Barney says: I don't know the words but I can tell you that the poem is by Mabel Lucie Attwell - not Enid Blyton.
Posted by Shauna Kettlewell on April 13, 2020
Is the 1950s radio version of the Five Find-Outers able to be released commercially? Much stuff from that era would only survive as off-air recordings given how much was junked.
Barney says: It would be up to the copyright holders, Hachette UK.
Posted by S on April 13, 2020
I am a lover of Enid Blyton's books and have been reading them since I was a child. I did not have the means to purchase and collect books.I now have children of my own and crave for some of the old and original publications. If there is a way for me to buy a whole collection (I saw Emily's note about her 700 book collection that she is looking to part with), I would very much like to consider taking over the collection. Please let me know the best way to go about this.
Barney says: If Emily comes back and gives her email address, you could contact her. Otherwise, people quite often sell large quantities of books on sites like eBay.
Posted by Shauna Kettlewell on April 11, 2020
Please Barney, do you know what the "ade" bit in orangeade and lemonade means? Why don't we say "cola-ade"? Thank you!
Barney says: "Ade" comes from the Latin "āta" meaning "made of". We dogs prefer waterade!
Posted by Shauna Kettlewell on April 7, 2020
Is orangeade in Enid Blyton's books what we call Fanta today? Coca-Cola is in her books today but was it around back then outside of America? Please and thank you (as Enid would put it, always remember your Ps and Qs).
Barney says: Q for your polite request, Shauna! Fanta is one brand of orangeade but there are others. Coca-Cola was available in the UK at the time that Enid Blyton was writing, but she doesn't mention it in her books. Her characters usually drink ginger beer, lemonade or orangeade.
Posted by Mary Lou on April 7, 2020
Will there be a 13th book of Malory Towers as it was Pamela Cox who wrote the 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th?
Barney says: She also wrote the 12th! Pamela Cox stopped writing Malory Towers books a long time ago but a book containing four shortish Malory Towers stories by different authors - New Class at Malory Towers - was published last year. A book based on the new TV series is also due out soon - Malory Towers: Darrell & Friends.
Posted by Emily on April 4, 2020
Hi everyone,I'm an Enid Blyton collector in Australia. I have over 700 books. Some are rare and others are modern. It's come time where I would like to sell my collection to someone who will really value and treasure it. Do you guys have any networks of collectors who may be interested in purchasing this collection? Thanks!
Barney says: In case anyone wants to contact you about this, Emily, please let me know whether it's okay for me to add your email address to your message.
Posted by Lucy on March 28, 2020
I love your books. They are better than Roald Dahl's.
Posted by Dave Ashby on March 25, 2020
Hello Barney, with regards to the paperback book listed in the Cave of Books, Five Go on a Great Western Adventure, I have a hardback version of this. I was not sure if the society was aware of one. ISBN is 9781444952711.
Barney says: Thanks for that, Dave!
Posted by Mary on March 24, 2020
Dear Barney, are there going to be any unreleased books from Enid Blyton coming out?
Barney says: As far as I know, the only children's book by Enid Blyton that wasn't published during her lifetime is Mr. Tumpy's Caravan, probably written in the 1930s. It's a full-length book (not the same as the short Mr. Tumpy and His Caravan) and the manuscript of 180 pages was discovered in 2011. At the moment there are no plans to release it, unfortunately.
Posted by Nathalie on March 24, 2020
Could anyone tell me, is there an edition of the Famous Five, the original language of Enid Blyton, without modern changes, that I could buy? I don't want to read the new versions with my child and do not understand why editors think they can alter an original text! Language also tells things about the time it was written. And kids ARE CURIOUS about the old times too and they can surely understand and appreciate the difference between now and then. Your help is very welcome, as I'm German and here nobody can help me...
Barney says: I agree that it's a good thing for children to read original texts and learn about bygone times while enjoying an exciting story. The Famous Five books have been revised several times over the years and I think your best bet for getting the original text would be to stick with hardbacks dating from before about 1965. Even then, there may or may not be very minor updates such as "king" becoming "queen" - but such alterations would be very few and far between if so.
Posted by H on March 24, 2020
Did Enid ever visit Godshill in Fordingbridge or write about the gypsies there?
Barney says: Not that I've heard. Enid Blyton did include gypsies in some of her books, but not particular groups from specified areas.
Posted by Sandra Murray Johnson on March 23, 2020
I was a reader of Enid Blyton in my young years but I have not read one in many years, so I was truly shocked to read a swear word (the F---ing word). I had to do a double take. No way would Enid Blyton put those words in her stories, so please tell me it is not a common use in this sometimes horrible world we live in, is nothing sacred? It has put me off reading the rest of my Enid Blyton books. It was written by Bruno Vincent.
Barney says: Your last sentence says it all, Sandra. The Bruno Vincent books are spoofs of the Famous Five series (though generally considered poorly written and not very funny!) and are aimed at an adult audience. Enid Blyton's own books for children still sell phenomenally well in many countries around the world and don't contain any foul language, of course.
Posted by Mike Fielder on March 22, 2020
I have been given a set of Bible Story prints by my auntie. I would like to know if they are valuable. They are colour prints, mainly of the life of Jesus, approximately A3 size. They have the inscription Macmillan and Co in the bottom right-hand corner. I wondered if any of your society could inform me if they are valuable or not.
Barney says: The prints are attractive but don't tend to be in great demand (unlike first editions of books in popular series!) To get an idea of value, you could consult a dealer (some are listed under 'Lashings of Links') or see what other sets have sold for recently on eBay or similar websites.
Posted by Mary Lou on March 20, 2020
Hello Barney, I registered but I haven't got an account yet and how will I contact the administrator?
Barney says: I think you'll find that your account has now been activated, Mary Lou. Have fun on the website and forums!
Posted by EB's GF on March 18, 2020
Am I the only one thinking that the Monthly Quiz hasn't updated itself in a few months? Because I keep feeling like I've done all these questions before...
Barney says: I'm afraid we haven't had any new questions for quite some time, but I believe that recycling is good for the environment!
Posted by R on March 18, 2020
Hi, I have just subscribed but do not have a log in. How shall I log in as member?
Barney says: If you contact Tony Summerfield, he'll send you the current password. Enjoy your membership!
Posted by Jax on March 9, 2020
Searching the internet for information on The Christmas Book by Juvenile Productions (illustrated by G. Hingham) led me here due to The Christmas Bicycle story. I was brought up on Enid Blyton and Beatrix Potter books but had no idea this short story existed.Would anyone know the age of this book please? I suspect itâs even older than I am and in far better condition too!
Barney says: I'm glad your search led you to us, Jax! The illustrator is Geoffrey Higham and the date of publication (1956) is given at the top of the listing in our Cave of Books.
Posted by Megan on March 5, 2020
I am looking for a specific Noddy story/book about a new jumper which unravels and Big Ears has to help Noddy recover it. I don't know many other details about the story but desperately trying to find it as a surprise gift for my husband to read to our newborn! I have had zero luck and do not know where else to look! Thanks in advance.
Posted by Debby Clarke on February 26, 2020
My mother read a book, many years ago, about being adopted. She said it was written so beautifully. She thought it was written by Enid Blyton. Are you able to tell me if Enid did write a book about being adopted, please?
Barney says: Yes, the book is called The Child Who Was Chosen. By coincidence, Robert Draper asked about the same book on 5th February.
Posted by Caroline on February 26, 2020
Hello, I'm trying to trace a story, from 1950 to 1953 possibly, that I believe was written by Enid Blyton, which included characters called Zenzie and Daffy (not a duck but a daffodil) and I seem to remember they travelled on a sycamore 'spinner'. After their adventures, the last line of the story was ... "It's nice to be home," said Zenzie. That's all I remember about it. Can you help, please?
Posted by Elaine on February 24, 2020
Does anyone remember a poem with the lines, "The ducks go out on rainy days/And never wear goloshes,/And no one calls to them and says/'Put on your macintoshes!'"? I always thought it was Enid Blyton who wrote it but cannot find it anywhere. Also a short story about a child who used to walk home a blind lady until the day it was so foggy when the lady used her cane to get them home. Having checked this website I have found a short story called 'Lost in the Fog'.
Barney says: The poem about the ducks is definitely 'The Lucky Ducks' and I think the story about the fog is 'Mrs. Tap-Tap-Tap'. If you put the titles into the 'Search the database' box in our Cave of Books, you can see which books they appeared in.
Posted by Patricia Buckley on February 21, 2020
I have a first edition, original D/J, marked 5/-, Enid Blyton, The Three Golliwogs. Red hardback. Inside book is front paste down and then where the next page is usually blank, it has underlined "sunny stories library". No. 6, The Three Golliwogs. Is this correct? I was expecting a blank page to be opposite the front paste down. I want to sell this book, but I need to know I have everything correct. Can you please email me by return and let me know if this is correct?
Barney says: I hope someone who owns a first edition of the book will post a reply, Patricia.
Posted by Philippa Reid on February 18, 2020
I received a letter from Enid Blyton in 1963 after I sent her a story that I had written! She said that my story was "very good for my age" and offered advice for pursuing a career in writing, which I did, as a freelance in marketing and PR, and subsequently as the author of a non-fiction book about the art of quilling (paper filigree). I am offering the letter for sale on eBay via this link.
Posted by Elizabeth on February 16, 2020
I had an annual around 1961 in which there was a story about a rabbit called Mr Woofles. I would love to find the story again to read to my grandchildren. Can anyone remember this story? Thank you.
Barney says: You may be thinking of Mr. Woffles, the rabbit in the story 'Little Mr. Woffles'. Getting to his home involves climbing into a hollow tree, going down through a trapdoor and then opening a door with a brass nameplate on it. The story can be found in these books.
Posted by Linda Leith on February 16, 2020
Does anyone know where I can find the audio recordings of Enid Blyton's Adventure Series? Some of them used to be on YouTube but they have been deleted. My grandson loves listening to them. Thanks.
Barney says: They appear to be available on Audible Audiobooks - but at the incredibly steep price of £14.99 each!
Posted by Sadie on February 8, 2020
Hello, is anyone able to tell me what font is used for 'Enid Blyton' on the cover of the books? I've seen a thread on this but am unable to locate it now that I'm looking for it! Many thanks.
Barney says: Do you mean Enid Blyton's signature, Sadie? Signatures are individual so I imagine there isn't a specific font and the publisher must use a program to replicate it and adjust things like the colour, size and thickness.
Posted by Robert Draper on February 5, 2020
I was interested to read what limited information your website held on Enid Blyton's booklet, The Child Who was Chosen, which deals with child adoption and the issues it raises. I note it was published (perhaps self published) in 1955. My brother was adopted in 1959 and myself in 1963. My adopted mother must have bought a copy of the book, and she must have met Enid, as it it is signed by Enid.
Barney says: That's interesting, Robert. It's nice to know that adoptive parents made use of the book.
Posted by David Kitchen on January 30, 2020
I thought of a sadly gone personality who would have been wonderful in a Blyton TV series - Rik Mayall. Remember his performance of George's Marvellous Medicine on Jackanory?What about Jon Pertwee as Mr Rivers, Darrell's surgeon father? Roy Kinnear as Jo Jones's father?
Posted by Anita on January 29, 2020
Where can I find the answer to the riddle of The Royal Dragon of Siam? Thanks.
Barney says: SPOILER WARNING - - - - - - - - - - - According to answers.com, the dragon is hidden at the top right hand side on the Rising Sun wall.
Posted by Pamela Dann on January 27, 2020
Thanks for your answer regarding the birthday cake. My error - Christine's surname was Turrell!
Posted by Pamela Dann on January 26, 2020
When Enid Blyton's Magazine had been running a year, in the 1950s, my cousin Christine Tyrrell won a cake from Harrods as her birthday was 18th March. Is there anything in the magazine?
Barney says: Yes, the relevant issue is this one dated March 17th-30th 1954 (Volume 2, Number 6). Enid Blyton explains in her editorial that the magazine is celebrating its first birthday and that twelve readers whose birthdays fall on 18th March have been sent a cake. The names of the twelve children are listed on page 20, though it seems that Christine's surname was misspelt as the magazine says, "Christine Turrell, Lowestoft".
Posted by David Kitchen on January 25, 2020
Did Enid refer to Islam in any of her stories? The Middle East or the Arab world?
Barney says: The River of Adventure is set in the Middle East and the children visit Morocco in The Ship of Adventure but I don't recall any references to Islam. Enid Blyton re-told some Tales of the Arabian Nights so there are mentions of sultans, caliphs and viziers - and the outdated word "Mohammedans" is used in the story 'The Fisherman and the King of the Black Isles'.
Posted by M on January 22, 2020
Hi everyone, I had an audio tape of The Enchanted Wood when I was younger. It wasn't the version read by Kate Winslet which is all I can find online. Maybe it was the version by Jill Shilling. I'm not sure if there are other versions. Is there an archive anywhere where I can listen to the Jill Shilling version online, or even a sample? I would love to hear it again but do not own a cassette player or the cassette itself.
Barney says: There were also the WHSmith cassettes, published in 1986. You can find out about them here.
Posted by Dave Ashby on January 21, 2020
Five Go On a Great Western Adventure by GWR. Do you happen to know if this is a novel or just a picture book, please? Many thanks.
Barney says: It's a novella of 50-odd pages, Dave. The Five chase a crook through the GWR region but it's not the most exciting adventure as it's mainly written to promote the Great Western Railway and the places it serves!
Posted by David Kitchen on January 15, 2020
I think Enid would have supported that Swedish Greta girl that talks about climate change. Enid really cared about nature and wildlife.
Posted by Heather on January 14, 2020
Hi everyone! I was a member of the Society several years ago, and a book collector. I have since moved house and have nowhere to display my lovely collection. Rather than keep them in boxes in a wardrobe, I decided itâs time to sell. I will list them all on eBay later, but wanted to come here first to see if anyone was interested in a bulk lot. Most have dust jackets, some first editions, all early (pre-1975) cloth-bound editions. If anyone is in or around the Melbourne, Australia area and would like to buy a bunch at once, please let me know. Prices will range from $5 to $50 depending on the book and quality. If thereâs something youâre looking for, please feel free to send me a note at heathersnow000@yahoo.com.au. Donât reply to this message, I wonât be checking it regularly.
Posted by Darren on January 13, 2020
I've searched the Cave of Books for information relating to those '2 in 1' books that came out around 1990 (Mulberry editions). I can't seem to find a definitive list of how many there were. Any idea? Thank you Barney old chap!
Barney says: I hope someone is able to help, Darren!
Posted by Geraldine Faulkner on January 9, 2020
I adored Enid Blyton's books growing up and so did my daughter. We are trying to find the title of the book she wrote which included the stories of how blackbirds got their gold beaks, sparrows got their black bibs and more stories. Would any of you wonderful people know the title of this book please? Thank you all so very much in advance. xx
Barney says: You're probably thinking of either The Adventures of Pip or Enid Blyton's Book of the Year, Geraldine. Enid Blyton certainly knew how to get children interested in nature.
Posted by Pete on January 2, 2020
Bear: My best guess is that the book you're after is either Enid Blyton's Merry Story Book (1943) OR the The Banana Robber and Other Stories (Award 1987). See this page in the Cave of Books for more details. Regards, Pete.
Barney says: A wuff of thanks to you, Pete! May 2020 bring you bones and biscuits galore!
Posted by Redaka on January 2, 2020
I am looking for a picture of the spines of Enid Blyton first edition books, particularly Famous Five, and cannot find one anywhere. I would be very grateful if anyone could help with this please.
Barney says: If you visit our Cave of Books (button over on the left), the pictures will give you some idea of what the spines look like.