Candy is a down's syndrome child, but that fact is never mentioned. Her almond-shaped eyes, too short nose, red round cheeks and unusual behaviour give it away, but her smile makes Lewis Own melt and wish ' he could keep Candy happy for always'. Lewis has two talents: he is a born climber and a truly great boaster. His mum tells him his 'big talk' will get him into trouble one day. And it does, but his affection for Candy helps him to decide for himself that his need to boast of his accomplishments is counter-productive. Wonderful village characters in a realistic and beautifully observed book.