If you love stories where magic feels real because it's tied to deep human needs, you'll love Harding's Luck. E. Nesbit, a master of blending the everyday with the fantastic, gives us a sequel that's arguably richer and more moving than its predecessor.

The Story

We meet Dickie Harding, a kind-hearted but impoverished boy with a bad leg, facing the grim prospect of the workhouse. His luck changes when he discovers a magical talisman and meets a talking mole—a 'mouldiwarp'—who serves as his guide. This magic allows him to 'dream true,' slipping back in time to the 17th century. There, he lives as Richard Arden, his own ancestor, in a grand house with a loving family. Back in his own time, each good deed he does in the past improves his present circumstances, bringing him money and hope. But the magic comes with a heavy price and a final, agonizing choice about where he truly belongs.

Why You Should Read It

This book grabbed me because Dickie is one of Nesbit's most vulnerable and noble heroes. His physical pain and poverty aren't glossed over; they make his yearning for a better life, and his incredible selflessness, so powerful. The time travel isn't just a plot device—it's a mirror. The luxurious past highlights the injustices of Dickie's present, and his actions ask us what we owe to family, both past and future. It's a quieter, more thoughtful adventure than some of Nesbit's other books, but the emotional stakes are sky-high. I found myself completely invested in Dickie's impossible decision.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who loved the time-slip moments in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe or the emotional depth of The Secret Garden. It's a fantastic pick for older kids (10+) who are ready for a story that doesn't shy away from hard truths, and for adults who appreciate classic children's literature with real bite. If you're looking for a pure, light-hearted romp, this might not be it. But if you want a historical fantasy that will stick with you—a story about sacrifice, legacy, and the true meaning of 'luck'—then Dickie Harding's journey is absolutely worth taking.