I recently had the pleasure of listening to Gervase Phinn doing one of his stand-up routines in my home town (admittedly I was the only person there under 30, but didn't let that bother me) and I can geniunely say he is one of the funniest people I know of to have gone from being a school inspector to writing books based on his experiences. I didn't know who he was before then, and for my birthday I was given "The Little Village School" which was pretty much 'unputdownable.' I became totally absorbed into Barton-on-the-Dale, the characters were vivid and quirky, by turns humourous and then sad. I especially empathised with James Stirling, the doctor's son who has selective mutism and runs away, only to be found huddled in the new headteacher's garden. It was poignant. Enjoyed this novel, although it was not as good as his autobiographical series. Have seen Gervase in a couple of his stand-up routines and he is so good at story telling and very funny. Found this novel ok, very light and humourous, a little twee maybe. Many of the characters were caricatures of the people he had met during his teaching/inspecting career, but I got into it more and more and will be trying the follow up book which comes out in the Autumn.
What do You think about Little Village School (2012)?
Very cosy, twee book where everyone speaks properly and you know that good shall triumph.
—Winner5740
Lovely easy to read story. I did not want to put it down. Very humorous in parts.
—Will
A charming story with pleasant characters! An easy read.
—Alex
