The Borrowers Aloft is the fourth novel in the Borrowers series by Mary Norton and picks up their adventures an unspecified length of time after the end of the previous one. The Clock family are now living in Fordham, a small village made by Mr. Pott, where they seem to be having a nice peaceful life. However, things are never what they seem and never as safe as they thought for this family. Arietty has once again broken the cardinal rule of being a borrower by befriending Ms. Menzies, a woman who helps Mr. Pott with the model village. This would not be a problem in and of itself if there were not other factors still in play. Mr. Platter is a man who is building a village to rival Mr. Pott and is constantly spying on Fordham to do so. After spotting the Clock family and thinking that Mr. Pott purposely put them in the village he decides to do something about it, something that will help his model village in the process but that the Clock family will not end up liking.
This book started out a little oddly in comparison to the others as it seems to be the only one to not pick up immediately after the end of the previous one and instead there is a time jump of at least a few months. It also is the first book to not reference the framing narrative of Kate and Mrs. May as they learn about and retell the story of the borrowers. I don’t think it ever explains how this particular part of the story came to be known, unlike the previous books. The book does a great job of continuing the story and showing exactly how smart and resourceful the Clock family and borrowers in general seem to be. One of the things that really is an overarching theme of this book and the series as a whole is just how dangerous human beings can be to borrowers, even without meaning to be. It puts an interesting perspective on things that really makes you think. In terms of plot this book does have a bit more direct danger from human beings than has been seen since the second book with the encounter with the gypsies. However, this time it introduces the idea that it was deliberate direct danger instead of accidental direct danger so it changes things slightly because of that. I think it helps to heighten the sense of danger and the general helplessness the borrowers feel in that situation. It still tells a grand story of danger and adventure and courage though so it is still a really good and enjoyable adventure. The title is a bit of a spoiler for the ending though, just saying. I feel like it was a good addition to the series so I am happy giving it four out of five stars.
If you know any kids who enjoy fantasy books with a sense of adventure than I suggest you consider trying these ones out as they are pretty good overall. While they would probably hold the greatest appeal for that type of reader I could see them holding at least some appeal for most younger readers so if it sounds interesting go ahead and try it out. If you are an older reader looking for a fast read or something easy to while away the afternoon this would be a good suggestion for that as well as the book is just the right length to read in just a day or two. I don’t see any reason why readers of all ages wouldn’t enjoy this particular series at least a little so I hope you will consider trying it out. Remember to share your thoughts in the comments if you do.