The Little Tulip Orphanage in Amsterdam had three Rules of Abandonment and not once had those rules been broken – until the autumn of 1880. Each month from August to December, a baby was left in contravention of the rules. These five orphans were unusual in some way and so they became The Unadoptables.

The Unadoptables have become a close-knit ‘family’ and their dearest wish is to be adopted together. And imagine their surprise when Meneer Rotman arrives one night and agrees to take custody of them. The problem is that Meneer Rotman is causing the children to panic and lead protagonist Milou’s ears to burn. She is quite sure he is not what he seems and she intends to get them all away from the danger she perceives.

The group find their way to an abandoned mill that Milou is certain was her family home. Here they set up residence but have to confront many problems ranging from food supply, some nosy neighbours and the child welfare authorities, not to mention Rotman and Gassbeek.

This imaginative adventure by Dutch/ British author Hana Tooke is fast paced and occasionally heart-stopping.

While Milou’s burning desire to find her family is realised, all is not sweetness and light, and the ending leaves the possibility of further developments.

Reviewed by Lynne Babbage
Age Guide 9+