When the Angels Came is Bendigo author Glenda Millard's third children’s publication and her first chapter book.  And what a chapter book!  From the original eye catching title to the first introduction of the main character Will, we realize that Glenda has a special gift for capturing a young boy’s thoughts and actions and exploring the relationship with a much loved grandfather.

Will has a problem; Grandpa Jack has had a stroke and can no longer stay on “Five Foot Farm”.  No longer can Will help Grandpa Jack with the little red chooks, or watch Grandpa Jack milking the cows, Matilda and Queenie. Even Grandpa’s dog Wags is not allowed to stay with Grandpa at the retirement village.  Grandpa Jack hates meals on wheels and wants to sink his teeth into a good roast.

How can Will coax his Grandpa out of his lethargy and make him more like the Grandpa he remembers?  It’s then that Will meets Tansy the story teller, her bike and her knowledge of angels.  Ah, but I can’t tell you anymore about the plot.  You’ll have to read the story to find out about the angels.

The story’s eleven chapters are nicely interspersed with black/white illustrations. Glenda’s book makes a wonderful read aloud chapter book and so succinctly hones in on the feelings of a young boy for his Grandpa.  The plot is humourous, fast-paced, heartwarming and very original.  What more could you want?   Highly recommended

Review by Lorraine Marwood

© 2003 Lorraine Marwood