The title is self-revealing this time, isn't it? After bidding goodbye to the Psammead in the first book, the children are back in their home in London where they soon come across a phoenix and a magic wishing carpet. With the help of these two new magical discoveries, the children go on adventures around the world.

The phoenix is a very interesting character and a fabulous addition to the story. There are plenty of humorous scenes in this book too, though a couple of scenes are really quite illogical even for this genre. But it's still above average and children might enjoy it if they understand the difference in the cultural thinking of that time. Rating: 3/5



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The sequel to the wonderful Five Children and It is very similar to the first book. Again, we have the same group of siblings finding a magic creature (this time a phoenix) and a magic carpet that allows them to be transported to wherever they desire, and live adventures there.

If you loved Five Children and It, you'll also love The Phoenix and the Carpet, because the story, with its episodic structure, and Nesbit's witty style, full of warmth and ironic detachment, are quite similar. It is exactly the same formula, but more of a good thing is good. E. Nesbit is really a master of children's literature. ( )

The magical adventures of siblings Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane and their baby brother continue.
It's startling enough to have a phoenix hatch in your house, but even more startling when it talks and reveals that you have a magic carpet on the floor. The vain and ancient bird accompanies the children on a series of adventures through time and space which, magic being what it is, rarely turn out as they were meant . . .

I'm glad this was chose for our Vintage Book Circle pick of the month. I was lucky to find my copy buried on the shelves of my books for children. It prompted me to reorganize my shelves to get better access to these wonderful old titles. Some great adventures in this one. ( )

So this is a direct sequel to 'Five Children and It', so if you havn't read that, this might seem a bit odd in places.
I think i rated both books the same, this is superior in places but has a harder time trying to find reasons for things to happen and struggles to avoid repeating itself.
There's some jokes which might appeal to adults rather than kids in places so not a terrible thing if your reading it to someone.
Overall not a huge fan but entertaining enough. I listened to some of it on a very good Libravox recording by a Helen Taylor. ( )