It is 1852 and Emily is leaving her beloved grandmother behind as she and her family step on board the SS Great Britain in Liverpool. Her father is very strict and her mother prone to fainting. They are bound for Australia, and the prospect of a long sea voyage appears bleak. That is until Emily meets fellow passenger Thomas and discovers his secret, a pet rat called Barney. The two become friends, with Emily helping to look after Barney when Thomas’s cramped conditions in steerage mean he can’t hide him there. During their exploration of the ship they discover a ghost - or is it?

A nice little read, this book is crafted around an important part of history. The SS Great Britain was the first-ever iron ship and was designed by Victorian engineer Brunel. The distinction between first class passengers and those in steerage are explored as well as the social divide in Britain at the time. Emily discovers the hardship that the workers in her grandfather’s cotton mill must endure. This book is a bit harder than a first chapter book but will suit confident readers. ( )