It was just by pure chance that I spotted this book whilst I was sorting out the Welsh bookshelf in the classroom one evening. This classic, which was part of the Cyfres Corryn book series was one I had not laid eyes on since I was at school myself – Cyfrinach Betsan Morgan by the late Gwenno Hywyn. I’m ashamed to come that for a split second, I almost got rid of it, but thankfully, I came to my senses and kept hold of it.
The cover might be a tad plain and old-fashioned by today’s standards, but the story inside is just as good today as it was in 1986! In fact, the only thing that dates the book at all really is the mullets that the adults have on them (and even they’re due a comeback any day now!)
This is a bit of a mystery story with some fantasy twists thrown in for good measure. Although the novel is listed on some websites as a teens book, it’s definitely ok for the 9-11 age group. Betsan really isn’t looking forward to going on a residential trip to Plas yr Hydd. Her best friend, Lowri, has bailed on her, which means that she’s the only one going from her school, and she’ll have to spend the time with loads of new people she’s never met. Personally, I can’t think of anything worse!
Shortly after she arrives at Plas yr Hydd, strange things begin to happen, and it’s as if Betsan can travel back through time, or at the very least starts to see flashbacks from a bygone era. How does it all link to the special necklace she just got from her Mother? What is the significance of the initials E.W? Will Betsan be able to solve the mystery of Plas yr Hydd’s lost treasure? You’ll have to try and find a copy if you’re ever going to know her secret!
To be fair, I did a bit of time travel myself whilst reading, as it took me back to those halcyon days going to Glan Llyn on school trips. I remember there was always a big buzz when it came to the night of the disco- the girls glamming up, and the lads trying to impress with their best efforts on the dancefloor… Good memories.
This is a fast-moving story, and the mystery sustains our interest throughout. The fantasy element strengthened the story and added a bit of adventure and gave us a satisfying conclusion. This is a relatively short novel with language that is easy to read – perfect if you want to enjoy a story without having to worry about difficult words. It’s clear that the author is a master of crafting a catchy story without resorting to over-complicated plotlines.
Similar to the lost treasure of Plas yr Hydd, I hate to think of old copies of this book stuck in cupboards in schools across Wales, with no one to enjoy them. Go on, go and have a look to see if there’s a copy lurking on your bookshelf. Unfortunately, the novel has been out of print for years, but with a current shortage of juicy books for the 7-11 age group, I reckon now’s a good time for this one to be re-published so it can be enjoyed by another generation…