The Story

The story follows Charles, an orphaned boy with a lively and kind heart, who is sent to live with his miserly, cruel cousin, Madame Mac’Miche. She runs a strict, joyless household and sees Charles's natural high spirits and cleverness as pure wickedness, branding him a 'little devil.' Charles, in turn, fights back with ingenious pranks and sheer stubbornness, refusing to let his spirit be crushed.

His main ally is the kind servant Juliette, but his main adversary is the hypocritical and greedy schoolmaster, M. Blackman. The plot revolves around Charles's attempts to navigate this oppressive world, protect those he cares about, and find a way to a better life, all while staying true to himself.

Why You Should Read It

This book completely charmed me. It's easy to think of 19th-century children's stories as overly moralistic, but this one has real bite and humor. Charles isn't a perfect angel; he's clever and retaliatory, which makes him feel real and deeply satisfying to root for. The book makes a strong, clear argument about the difference between true malice and the natural rebellion of a good soul trapped in a bad situation.

I found myself laughing out loud at his schemes and then genuinely moved by the moments of tenderness, especially between Charles and Juliette. It's a powerful reminder that 'good behavior' isn't always about blind obedience.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves classic stories with spunk, or for parents looking for a chapter book to read with older kids that has both humor and heart. If you enjoyed the rebellious spirit of characters like Tom Sawyer or the witty orphans in Lemony Snicket's tales, you'll find a wonderful, earlier cousin in Charles. It’s a short, engaging read that proves some struggles—like fighting against cruelty and injustice—are timeless.