The Wide Window

Another book, another distant relative, another dastardly plot from Count Olaf. I can see how these books could start to feel repetitive. But since they're aimed at a much younger audience, that is probably part of the point.

The thing to do is look at the details. The new guardian is not quite as wonderful as Uncle Monty was. She's terrified of everything. She's constantly correcting everyone's grammar, even that of infant Sunny who barely knows real words yet, let alone proper grammar. So even though she sees through Count Olaf's latest disguise as Captain Sham, she fails to do anything to protect the children in her care. She's ultimately eaten by leeches (probably. I wouldn't be too surprised if she showed up again in a later book.

There's some good stuff in here about facing your fears and finding courage. And also about how annoying pedantry is. The plot twists and turns in exciting ways, and the orphans once again team up to save the day, despite Mr. Poe. Also Count Olaf almost admits to burning down their house in the first place, hinting at a larger conspiracy. Or at least a deeper plot to get at the fortune.

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