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The Cellar Lad
The Cellar Lad
Dec 1, 2025 8:39 PM

Author:Theresa Tomlinson

The Cellar Lad

Ben Sterndale's days of freedom are over. There'll be no more running wild through Ecclesall woods now that he's got a proper job at Dyson's Scythe Works. As the Cellar Lad he's at everyone's beck and call and it's hard and dangerous work. His father and fellow workers at the cruicible workshop - the forgers, grinders and the puller out - are striving for change. But as the working people of Sheffield unite to peacefully campaign for their rights, SOMEONE is threatening to FIGHT for a difference - no matter what trouble it may bring. . . . . . . .

Reviews

Just the ticket for children who laugh at things adults think should not be funny

—— TES

A fast and fluent read

—— Niall McGonagle , Irish Times

This book will appeal to a variety of children who can relate to having mixed-up feelings and a hatred of maths!

—— Teaching and Learning

You won't be able to put this fantastic read down. We're sad it's over

—— Mizz

Invisible Threads is a wonderful exploration of the realtionship bewteen mothers and daughters and the conflict and and comfort that is at its core.

—— INIS

A touching story.

—— Teen Titles

This is a fast-paced short chapter book (perhaps as you would expect from a book about racing!) but it pauses in just the right places for the laughs.

—— The Literacy Tree

To get children's attention when it comes to reading, you have to have engaging characters - and situations... and Dixie O'Day has both in spades. Aimed at children who have just gained the confidence to read alone, this charming and utterly brilliant story, which kicks off a new series, is also perfect for sharing. The illustrations suck you in, the story will have you smiling, then laughing... Absolutely brilliant!

—— Books Monthly website

The book has a nostalgic feel, which gives the impression that it is a classic already, with simple red, white and black illustrations, and there are some added bonuses in the form of a detailed map prior to the story illustrating the adventure, and a quiz which will support any young reader to dip back into the text to find the textual references. This is a fast-paced short chapter book but it pauses in just the right places for the laughs. Ages 5-9.

—— http://theliteracytree.co.uk/august-literature-review/

Clara Vulliamy’s illustrations are filled with a nostalgic charm that perfectly complements her mother’s writing.The characters are brilliantly created, with my favourite being the duo’s neighbour and nemesis, Lou Ella. Adults can marvel at the overall design of the book and chuckle along to the pop-culture references scattered throughout. With activities at the back and an introduction to the characters at the front, this delightful book is also so much more than just a story. With such close attention to creating something to treasure, by one of England’s own treasures when it comes to younger fiction, I feel I can easily make the claim that Dixie O’Day will still be found on shelves in 2043 (gosh that seems such a long way away).

—— NightLightBooks.com

Canine capers in a beautifully designed package from a mother-and-daughter author/artist team.

—— Korky Paul , S Magazine, Sunday Express
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