What unfortunate event disrupts the children's holiday plans and introduces new characters?

Aunt Fanny falls seriously ill and must be taken to a hospital far away for treatment, accompanied by Uncle Quentin. This leaves the children under the care of a temporary cook, Mrs. Stick, who brings her husband and their unpleasant son, Edgar, to the cottage.

Who are the 'Sticks' and why do they become antagonists to the children?

The Sticks are Mrs. Stick, the cook, her husband, and their son Edgar. They are portrayed as rude, overbearing, and cruel, especially towards the children and Timmy. Their presence creates a hostile environment, leading to constant conflict and animosity.

What specific act by Mrs. Stick triggers George's decision to run away?

Mrs. Stick repeatedly attempts to poison George's beloved dog, Timmy, which deeply distresses George. This cruelty towards Timmy is the final straw, prompting George to secretly plan an escape to Kirrin Island to protect her dog.

How do Julian, Dick, and Anne end up joining George on Kirrin Island?

Julian catches George as she is secretly leaving for Kirrin Island with Timmy. Upon discovering her plan, George reluctantly agrees to let Julian, Dick, and Anne join her, recognizing the safety in numbers and their shared dislike for the Sticks.

What initial discovery on Kirrin Island suggests that the children are not alone?

Shortly after arriving, the children find evidence of other people visiting the island, such as footprints and discarded items. This immediately raises their suspicions, leading them to believe that smugglers or other unknown individuals are using the island.

What specific items found on the island point to a more sinister plot than just smuggling?

The children discover a young girl's toys and clothes hidden on the island. These items are out of place for typical smuggler activity and suggest the presence of a child, hinting at a kidnapping or some other serious crime.

How does the children's previous experience with mysteries on Kirrin Island influence their approach to this new situation?

Having previously encountered adventures and mysteries on Kirrin Island, the children are more alert and less naive. Their past experiences make them quicker to suspect foul play and more resourceful in investigating the strange occurrences, rather than dismissing them.

Are there any clues early on that suggest the Sticks are connected to the island's secret, beyond their general unpleasantness?

While not explicitly stated as a direct connection, the Sticks' extreme hostility and attempts to get rid of the children, especially George and Timmy, could be interpreted as a subtle effort to clear the cottage and island for their own illicit activities, or to prevent the children from uncovering them.

How does George's attachment to Timmy reflect her broader personality and emotional state?

George's deep attachment to Timmy highlights her fierce loyalty, independence, and strong emotional core. Timmy is her closest companion, and her willingness to run away to protect him underscores her readiness to take drastic action for those she loves, and her feeling of being misunderstood by adults.

How does Julian's leadership style develop and adapt during their time on Kirrin Island?

Julian, as the eldest, naturally takes on a leadership role, but on Kirrin Island, he must adapt to George's strong will and intimate knowledge of the island. He learns to balance his authority with collaboration, valuing George's input while still orchestrating their plans and ensuring everyone's safety.

What psychological impact do the Sticks' actions have on the children, particularly in fostering their unity?

The Sticks' constant cruelty and attempts to poison Timmy create a shared enemy for the children, forging a strong bond of solidarity among them. This external threat pushes them to overcome minor disagreements and unite against a common injustice, strengthening their collective resolve.

In what ways does the isolation of Kirrin Island affect the children's resourcefulness and coping mechanisms?

The isolation of Kirrin Island forces the children to rely entirely on themselves and each other. They must become more resourceful in finding food, shelter, and means of investigation, while also developing coping mechanisms for fear and uncertainty without immediate adult supervision.

Is George's decision to run away impulsive or a carefully considered act of defiance?

While seemingly impulsive in its execution, George's decision is deeply rooted in her long-standing resentment of adult authority and her fierce protective instincts towards Timmy. It's a culmination of frustration, making it an act of defiance born from a considered, albeit emotional, internal struggle.

How does the narrative challenge the traditional role of adults as protectors in this story?

The narrative significantly challenges the traditional role of adults by portraying Aunt Fanny and Uncle Quentin as absent due to illness, and the substitute adults, the Sticks, as outright villains. This forces the children to become their own protectors and problem-solvers, highlighting adult failure and childhood resilience.

Could the 'ghastly' nature of Edgar Stick be interpreted as a reflection or amplification of his parents' negative traits?

Edgar's ghastly nature can certainly be seen as a direct reflection and amplification of his parents' unpleasantness. He embodies their cruelty and lack of empathy, suggesting a negative upbringing that has fostered his own disagreeable personality, rather than him being an independently 'bad' child.

What is the significance of the discovery of a young girl's toys and clothes, beyond just indicating a kidnapping?

Beyond a simple kidnapping, the toys and clothes signify a profound violation of innocence and safety. They add a layer of emotional urgency and moral gravity to the mystery, transforming it from a mere adventure into a rescue mission with higher stakes, impacting the children deeply.

How does the setting of Kirrin Island contribute to both the adventure and the sense of danger in the story?

Kirrin Island provides an ideal setting for adventure with its caves and hidden spots, fostering the children's sense of exploration. Simultaneously, its isolation makes it a dangerous place, cutting them off from help and making them vulnerable to the unknown threats lurking on its shores.

Archivist's Choice

Five Run Away Together

Name: Five Run Away Together
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.07 (15369 reviews)
ISBN: 9780340796177

Enid Blyton (1942)

Genre

Children's / Mystery / Young Adult

Reading Time

180 min

Key Themes

See below

Track Your Reading

When a hateful cook and her family take over their home, the Kirrin children and their dog Timmy escape to Kirrin Island, only to uncover a sinister plot involving smugglers and a missing girl.

Synopsis

Julian, Dick, and Anne arrive at Kirrin Cottage to spend the holidays with their cousin George and her dog, Timmy. They want to explore Kirrin Island, a small island George's family owns. Their plans change when George's mother, Aunt Fanny, gets sick and must leave with Uncle Quentin for hospital treatment. A temporary cook, Mrs. Stick, her husband, and their unpleasant son Edgar move into Kirrin Cottage to care for the children. The Sticks are mean and hostile, especially towards George's dog, Timmy, whom Mrs. Stick tries to poison. George, upset and wanting to protect Timmy, plans to run away to Kirrin Island. Julian learns of George's escape attempt, and after some discussion, the other children join her. On the island, they find signs of recent visitors and suspect smugglers. Their suspicions grow when they find a secret passage to a hidden cave. Inside, they find a young girl's toys and clothes, suggesting more than just smuggling. They watch the smugglers from a distance, realizing the Sticks are involved. George is captured, so Julian plans her rescue. The children confront the criminals, leading to a dramatic rescue. Uncle Quentin arrives with the police, the little girl is found and tells her story, and the Sticks are exposed and leave. The children reflect on their adventure, stronger from their experiences and looking forward to future escapades.

Reading time

180 min

Difficulty

Easy

Pacing

Fast

Mood

Adventurous, Suspenseful, Nostalgic, Exciting

✓ Read this if...

You enjoy classic children's mysteries with adventurous kids and a sense of peril.

✗ Skip this if...

You prefer modern children's fiction or are sensitive to depictions of child endangerment.

Plot Summary

Arrival at Kirrin Cottage and Unwelcome Guests

Julian, Dick, and Anne arrive at Kirrin Cottage for holidays with their cousin, George, and her dog, Timmy. Their excitement about exploring Kirrin Island fades when Aunt Fanny gets sick and Uncle Quentin takes her to a hospital. A temporary cook, Mrs. Stick, her husband, and their unpleasant son, Edgar, move into Kirrin Cottage. The Sticks are rude and hostile, especially towards Timmy, whom Mrs. Stick tries to poison with food. This causes growing tension between the families.

George's Secret Escape Plan

The constant meanness from the Sticks, especially Mrs. Stick's attempts to harm Timmy, pushes George too far. Unable to stand their presence and fearing for Timmy's safety, George secretly plans to escape to Kirrin Island. She packs supplies, intending to live there alone with Timmy until her parents return. She believes the island offers the only refuge from the oppressive atmosphere at Kirrin Cottage. She prepares in secret, determined to act soon, without her cousins knowing.

The Famous Five Reunite on the Island

As George tries to leave Kirrin Cottage at night, Julian, who is watching, catches her. He quickly understands she means to run away to Kirrin Island. Instead of stopping her, Julian convinces George that they should all go together. Dick and Anne quickly join the plan, and with the shared desire to escape the Sticks, the four children and Timmy start their adventure to Kirrin Island. They gather supplies, load them into George's boat, and row across the channel under the moonlight, leaving the unwelcoming cottage for the freedom of their island.

Mysterious Discoveries on Kirrin Island

On Kirrin Island, the children first enjoy their freedom and being away from the Sticks. But their peace soon ends when they find signs they are not alone. They discover discarded food wrappers, footprints not their own, and other clues of recent human presence. These findings immediately alert the children. Their excitement turns to unease and suspicion, as they realize someone else has been using their private island, possibly for illegal activities, prompting them to investigate.

The Secret Passageway and Hidden Cave

Driven by curiosity and growing suspicion, the children thoroughly explore Kirrin Island. George, knowing the island well, leads them to a secret passage in the cliffs. This passage leads to a hidden cave, which looks natural but also shows signs of recent human activity. Inside, they find more evidence of intruders, including old crates and campfire remains. This discovery confirms their fears that others are using the island, increasing their resolve to uncover the mystery.

A Young Girl's Toys and Clothes

As the children search the hidden cave, they make a disturbing discovery: a collection of children's toys and clothes. Among the items are a small doll, a child's shoe, and a worn blanket, all suggesting a young girl was recently there. This deeply troubles the Famous Five. The items are not just discarded; they seem to have been left quickly or hidden. The idea that a child might be involved in illegal activities, or worse, held against her will, adds a dark layer to the mystery, shifting their focus from simple trespassers to a possibly serious crime.

Observing the Smugglers

The children decide to watch the island from a hidden spot, hoping to catch the intruders. Their wait pays off when, at night, they see a boat approach Kirrin Island. Figures get out and start moving crates into the hidden cave. It becomes clear these are smugglers, using the island as a secret base. Seeing these shadowy figures confirms the children's suspicions and their understanding of the danger they face. They realize they are dealing with criminals involved in serious illegal activities.

The Sticks' Deception and Parental Concern

Back at Kirrin Cottage, the Sticks are at first unconcerned by the children's absence, thinking they are just playing. However, as days pass and the children do not return, their indifference turns to fake worry. When Uncle Quentin calls from the hospital to check on his children, Mrs. Stick makes up a story, saying the children are fine and enjoying themselves. Despite her assurances, Uncle Quentin feels something is wrong and becomes anxious about his nieces and nephew, deciding to cut short his hospital stay and return home, unaware of the real situation on Kirrin Island.

George's Capture

Driven by her independence and a wish to understand the smugglers' operations, George goes too close to the hidden cave. While trying to get more information or rescue the suspected captive child, she is ambushed by the smugglers. They quickly overpower her, silencing her. George is captured and dragged into the cave, where she is tied up and gagged. Her capture is a severe blow to the Famous Five, leaving her cousins upset and forcing them to plan a rescue under pressure, as one of their own is now in danger.

Julian's Brave Plan

With George captured, Julian, as the oldest, takes charge. He quickly forms a bold plan to rescue George and expose the smugglers. His strategy involves two parts: first, to create a distraction to free George, and second, to send a message to the mainland to alert the police or Uncle Quentin. He knows they are outnumbered, but their loyalty to George and their determination for justice fuels their courage. He explains the plan to Dick and Anne, giving them specific roles, stressing the need for secrecy and quick action.

The Rescue and Confrontation

The Famous Five put Julian's plan into action. Dick and Anne create a distraction, making noise and throwing stones to draw the smugglers' attention from the cave's main entrance. While the smugglers are distracted, Julian, with Timmy's help, sneaks into the cave through another way. He quickly unties George, and together, they escape the cave. A chaotic confrontation follows as the smugglers realize they have been outsmarted. The children, with Timmy barking, manage to escape their pursuers, but the smugglers are now fully aware of their presence and intent.

Uncle Quentin's Arrival and the Police

Just as the children struggle to escape the island and the smugglers, Uncle Quentin, having returned home and found the children missing and the Sticks' lies, arrives at Kirrin Island in his boat. He is horrified to find his nieces and nephews in danger. His timely arrival creates enough of a distraction for the children to fully escape. Uncle Quentin quickly understands the situation and, after ensuring the children's safety, immediately contacts the police. The authorities arrive quickly, cornering the smugglers and arresting them, ending the dangerous ordeal on Kirrin Island.

The Little Girl's Story

After the smugglers are caught, the mystery of the little girl is solved. It turns out the smugglers held a young girl named Jenny captive, using her against her father, who was involved in their illegal activities. She was the source of the toys and clothes found in the cave. Jenny is safely reunited with her family, and the children learn the full extent of the smugglers' crime. This revelation brings closure to the children, confirming their suspicions and validating their brave actions in uncovering the plot.

The Sticks' Departure and Reconciliation

With the smugglers dealt with and the truth about the children's disappearance known, the Sticks' bad behavior can no longer be ignored. Uncle Quentin, angry at their deception and neglect, fires them from Kirrin Cottage. The unpleasant family is forced to leave, much to the children's relief. Soon after, Aunt Fanny recovers completely and returns home, bringing warmth and normalcy back to the cottage. The children can finally enjoy the rest of their holidays in peace, their bond strengthened by their shared adventure.

Reflections and Future Adventures

The Famous Five, having solved another mystery and survived danger, reflect on their adventure. They discuss their bravery, clever plans, and teamwork. The experience has deepened their bond and reinforced their love for Kirrin Island, which, despite its dangers, remains their favorite place for adventures. They look forward to future holidays and new mysteries, knowing that together, they can face any challenge, their spirit of adventure strong.

Principal Figures

Julian Kirrin

The Protagonist

Julian develops from a responsible older brother to a decisive leader, demonstrating increasing courage and strategic thinking under pressure.

Dick Kirrin

The Protagonist

Dick grows in confidence, showcasing his problem-solving skills and bravery beyond just being Julian's sidekick.

Anne Kirrin

The Protagonist

Anne overcomes her initial timidity to display genuine courage and resourcefulness in dangerous situations.

George Kirrin (Georgina)

The Protagonist

George learns to trust her cousins more, balancing her independence with the strength of teamwork, while her protectiveness of Timmy drives much of her action.

Timmy

The Supporting

Timmy remains a steadfast, brave, and loyal companion, consistently proving his worth to the group.

Mrs. Stick

The Antagonist

Mrs. Stick remains a static antagonist, consistently displaying her unpleasant nature and ultimately facing consequences for her actions.

Mr. Stick

The Antagonist

Mr. Stick remains a static antagonist, consistently unpleasant and complicit in his wife's actions.

Edgar Stick

The Antagonist

Edgar remains a static antagonistic figure, never showing remorse or growth.

Uncle Quentin

The Supporting

Uncle Quentin's concern for his family leads him to intervene directly, demonstrating his underlying love and protectiveness.

Aunt Fanny

The Supporting

Aunt Fanny's illness and recovery serve as a plot device, her return signaling the resolution of domestic conflict.

Jenny

The Mentioned

Jenny is a static character, serving as a victim who is ultimately rescued.

Themes & Insights

The Importance of Family and Loyalty

The main theme is the strong bond between the Kirrin cousins and Timmy. When Aunt Fanny gets sick and the Sticks make life difficult, the children's loyalty to each other and Timmy drives George's plan to run away, and Julian's decision to join her. Their choice to live on Kirrin Island, and later their united efforts to rescue George and expose the smugglers, show how their family ties and devotion help them overcome problems. Julian's determination to rescue George from the smugglers demonstrates the strength of their family bond.

“We'll stick together, whatever happens. We always do, don't we?”

Justice and Standing Up to Wrongdoing

The children's sense of justice makes them act against both the Sticks' cruelty and the smugglers' illegal activities. They refuse to tolerate the Sticks' mistreatment of Timmy and themselves, leading to their escape. Later, finding smugglers on Kirrin Island and realizing a child might be held captive prompts them to confront the criminals. Their actions, from gathering evidence to planning a rescue and alerting authorities, show their belief in righting wrongs and protecting the innocent, even when facing dangerous adults. Their refusal to ignore the mysterious events on the island clearly shows this theme.

“It's not fair! They can't just take over our island and do horrid things!”

The Allure and Dangers of Independence

The children, especially George, want independence and the freedom to explore and make their own rules, particularly away from controlling adults. Their decision to run away to Kirrin Island shows this desire. While independence brings excitement and allows them to discover the mystery, it also exposes them to dangers, such as encountering smugglers and George's capture. The story explores the balance between the thrill of self-reliance and the need to seek help from responsible adults when facing major threats, showing that while independence is powerful, it has risks.

“We're free! No horrid Sticks, no rules, just us and Timmy!”

The Contrast Between Childhood Innocence and Adult Corruption

The story clearly contrasts the children's innocent, adventurous spirit with the selfish, cruel, and criminal behavior of the adults they meet. The Sticks represent adult neglect and petty cruelty, while the smugglers embody serious adult corruption and lawlessness. The children, driven by curiosity, loyalty, and a sense of justice, are the ones who uncover and help stop the adult world of crime. This theme highlights that sometimes, children's clear moral compass is more effective in recognizing and fighting evil than the often-compromised world of adults.

“Grown-ups can be so horrid sometimes, can't they?”

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Isolated Island Setting

Kirrin Island serves as both a sanctuary and a dangerous, secret hideout.

Kirrin Island is a crucial plot device, functioning initially as the children's longed-for sanctuary from the unpleasant Sticks. Its isolation allows the children to pursue their independence and adventures without immediate adult supervision. However, this very isolation also makes it an ideal, hidden base for the smugglers, transforming it into a dangerous and mysterious location. The island's secret passages and hidden caves further facilitate the unfolding of the mystery, providing both a place for the children to hide and for the criminals to operate unseen, driving the plot forward by creating both freedom and peril.

The Ill Aunt Fanny

Aunt Fanny's illness acts as the catalyst for the entire plot.

Aunt Fanny's sudden illness is the primary inciting incident that sets the entire plot in motion. Her departure with Uncle Quentin necessitates the hiring of the temporary cook, Mrs. Stick. Without Aunt Fanny's illness, the Sticks would not have entered the children's lives, and the oppressive atmosphere that drives them to run away would not have occurred. Therefore, her illness is a critical plot device that initiates the conflict at Kirrin Cottage and ultimately leads to the children's adventure on Kirrin Island and their encounter with the smugglers.

Timmy's Vulnerability

Timmy's threatened safety fuels George's initial escape and the children's protectiveness.

Timmy's vulnerability, specifically Mrs. Stick's repeated attempts to poison him, is a powerful emotional trigger and a key plot device. It directly motivates George's decision to run away to Kirrin Island, as she fears for her beloved dog's life. This act of protecting Timmy then leads to the entire Famous Five joining her on the island. Timmy's safety remains a constant concern for the children and underscores their loyalty and compassion, driving many of their actions and intensifying the emotional stakes of their adventure.

The Secret Passageway and Hidden Cave

These hidden features provide the setting for the smugglers' operations and the children's discoveries.

The secret passageway and hidden cave on Kirrin Island are vital plot devices that facilitate the mystery. They serve as the smugglers' clandestine base of operations, allowing them to conduct their illegal activities undetected. For the children, these hidden features become the primary site of their investigation, where they discover crucial clues like the little girl's toys and clothes. The ability to explore these secret areas provides the children with a unique advantage, enabling them to uncover the truth and ultimately outwit the adult criminals, driving the central conflict of the story.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“It's simply glorious to be here, all of us together, and to have a mystery to solve!”

— Julian's excitement upon arriving at Kirrin Island and realizing a new adventure awaits.

“Julian always took charge. He was the eldest, and he was sensible.”

— A description of Julian's leadership role within the Famous Five.

“I say, this is an adventure, isn't it? Much better than being stuck at home!”

— Dick's enthusiastic reaction to the unfolding events on the island.

“She wanted to be a boy, and she certainly looked like one, with her short hair and boy's clothes.”

— A description of George's tomboy nature and appearance.

“Timmy barked furiously, a deep, warning growl in his throat. He sensed danger.”

— Timmy the dog's protective instinct kicking in when sensing intruders.

“It was quite thrilling, really, to be searching for something hidden, not knowing what it might be.”

— Anne's quiet enjoyment of the treasure hunt aspect of their adventure.

“They were grown-ups, but they were behaving like children, and very naughty children at that.”

— The children's observation of the adult villains' childish and malicious behavior.

“We've got to be brave, and we've got to be clever. We're the Famous Five!”

— Julian rallying his siblings and cousin, reminding them of their reputation and capabilities.

“There was a real feeling of excitement and mystery about the whole island.”

— The general atmosphere of Kirrin Island, which always promised adventure.

“George's face was white with anger. 'They've taken my island!' she hissed.”

— George's fury and possessiveness over Kirrin Island when it's invaded.

“They felt a thrill of danger, but also a fierce determination to outwit their foes.”

— The children's mixed emotions when facing the villains.

“This was going to be the best holiday ever, even with all the strange things happening.”

— The children's optimistic outlook despite the challenges they face.

“The feeling of being utterly alone on a deserted island was both eerie and exhilarating.”

— The initial sensation of isolation and freedom on Kirrin Island.

Quiz

Test Your Knowledge

Ready to see how well you understood this book? Take our interactive quiz with 10 questions.

Questions

Minutes

Best Score

Key Questions (FAQ)

Julian, Dick, and Anne arrive at Kirrin Cottage to spend their holidays with their cousin George (Georgina). They are looking forward to exploring Kirrin Island, a private island owned by George's family, and enjoying their time together.

About the author

Enid Blyton

Biography coming soon.

Similar books

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise cover

Explore more FICTION books

Track Your Reading

Synopsis

Plot Summary

Arrival at Kirrin Cottage and Unwelcome Guests

George's Secret Escape Plan

The Famous Five Reunite on the Island

Mysterious Discoveries on Kirrin Island

The Secret Passageway and Hidden Cave

A Young Girl's Toys and Clothes

Observing the Smugglers

The Sticks' Deception and Parental Concern

George's Capture

Julian's Brave Plan

The Rescue and Confrontation

Uncle Quentin's Arrival and the Police

The Little Girl's Story

The Sticks' Departure and Reconciliation

Reflections and Future Adventures

Principal Figures

Julian Kirrin

Dick Kirrin

Anne Kirrin

George Kirrin (Georgina)

Timmy

Mrs. Stick

Mr. Stick

Edgar Stick

Uncle Quentin

Aunt Fanny

Jenny

Themes & Insights

The Importance of Family and Loyalty

Justice and Standing Up to Wrongdoing

The Allure and Dangers of Independence

The Contrast Between Childhood Innocence and Adult Corruption

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Isolated Island Setting

The Ill Aunt Fanny

Timmy's Vulnerability

The Secret Passageway and Hidden Cave

Critical analysis

In-depth analysis

Strengths

Areas for improvement

Notable Quotes

Quiz

Test Your Knowledge

Key Questions (FAQ)

What is the initial setup that brings the four children together at Kirrin Cottage?

What unfortunate event disrupts the children's holiday plans and introduces new characters?

Who are the 'Sticks' and why do they become antagonists to the children?

What specific act by Mrs. Stick triggers George's decision to run away?

How do Julian, Dick, and Anne end up joining George on Kirrin Island?

What initial discovery on Kirrin Island suggests that the children are not alone?

What specific items found on the island point to a more sinister plot than just smuggling?

How does the children's previous experience with mysteries on Kirrin Island influence their approach to this new situation?

Are there any clues early on that suggest the Sticks are connected to the island's secret, beyond their general unpleasantness?

How does George's attachment to Timmy reflect her broader personality and emotional state?

How does Julian's leadership style develop and adapt during their time on Kirrin Island?

What psychological impact do the Sticks' actions have on the children, particularly in fostering their unity?

In what ways does the isolation of Kirrin Island affect the children's resourcefulness and coping mechanisms?

Is George's decision to run away impulsive or a carefully considered act of defiance?

How does the narrative challenge the traditional role of adults as protectors in this story?

Could the 'ghastly' nature of Edgar Stick be interpreted as a reflection or amplification of his parents' negative traits?

What is the significance of the discovery of a young girl's toys and clothes, beyond just indicating a kidnapping?

How does the setting of Kirrin Island contribute to both the adventure and the sense of danger in the story?

About the author

Enid Blyton

Similar books

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise

The Runaway

The Penderwicks in Spring

The Prince and the Dressmaker

The Running Dream

The Rabbits

The Polar Express

The Runaway King