Violet regularly visits the Saturday morning markets with her family and there she sees a young man selling china birds. She really wants to buy one however she has no money.

Violet is inspired to solve her problem. She dreams about being a famous archaeologist until her archaeological dig, (in the family’s back-yard), turns into a disaster. Despite set-backs, Violet persists in solving her problem in creative ways that primary aged girls would relate well to.

Branford’s use of descriptive language and short chapters aids in the enjoyment of reading this book. Violet Mackerel’s Brilliant Plot would make a great read aloud and Sarah Davis’s realistic black and white illustrations really enhance Branford’s characters.

This book includes an activity on creating your own box of small collectable treasures.

Anna Branford has written two more books in the series and there are some of Sarah Davis’s classroom ideas here.

review by Fiona

image by Travis S.