Five Children and It

The BBC’s 1991 adaptation of Five Children and It, based on E. Nesbit’s enduring 1902 children’s classic, is a charming, whimsical, and faithful retelling of one of English literature’s most beloved fantasy tales. Spread across six episodes, the mini-series successfully captures the nostalgic heart of Nesbit’s novel, complete with Edwardian curiosity, childlike wonder, and the inevitable comic chaos that comes with magical wishes gone wrong.

Set in the English countryside of Kent, the story begins as five siblings—Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane, and their baby brother, Hilary (affectionately known as “the Lamb”)—are sent to stay with their uncle. While exploring a gravel pit near his home, they stumble upon a most peculiar creature: the Psammead (pronounced "sammyadd" by the children in the story), a sand-fairy thousands of years old who grudgingly offers them one wish per day. But there's a catch—each wish vanishes at sunset, often leaving behind a trail of unintended consequences.

Five Children and It was broadcast on television for the first time on Sunday 17 June 1951 and was adapted by Vera Larina in two parts (The Beginning of "It" and The End of It), the second being broadcast the following Sunday. The Psammead, played by a small boy, Thomas Moore, was simply billed as 'It' in the Radio Times and Moore mimed to prolific character actor Richard Warner's voice. Clive Dunn appeared in the first part as Andrew. The 1991 version, as you might expect, used a far more sophisticated puppet made by the BBC Special Effects Department.

This later television adaptation remains admirably close to Nesbit’s original structure and tone. Each episode focuses on a different wish, allowing plenty of room for both comedic mishaps and the gentle moral lessons that underpin the story. From becoming "as beautiful as the day" (and promptly being locked out of their own home), to acquiring a useless fortune in antique gold coins, the children’s adventures are as funny as they are frustrating—for them, at least. Viewers, young and old, are left delightfully entertained.

The Psammead itself is a highlight. Brought to life with a combination of puppetry and characterful voice acting (by Francis Wright), the creature’s irritable yet oddly endearing personality is one of the show’s greatest strengths. Described by Nesbit as a strange blend of bat, monkey, snail and spider, the television version maintains that bizarre charm. The gruff sand-fairy is no benevolent genie; it is quick-witted, sarcastic, and deeply unimpressed by the children’s extravagant requests.

The series excels at showing how the children grow and mature across their summer of magical blunders. Initially reckless and self-indulgent in their wishes, they gradually come to understand the weight of their decisions. The episode in which they unwittingly cause their baby brother to grow into a pompous young man is particularly effective, highlighting the importance of appreciating things as they are rather than rushing towards what one thinks they should be.

Visually, the series embraces its period setting with lush, sun-dappled countryside scenes, rustic costumes, and the sort of gentle pacing that was a hallmark of early '90s British children’s television. While the special effects are modest by today’s standards, they have a handmade, storybook quality that suits the tale’s tone perfectly.

This isn’t the sort of adaptation that attempts to modernise or sensationalise the original story. Instead, it trusts in the strength of Nesbit’s writing and the universality of the themes—curiosity, family, humility, and the inevitable disappointments that come with getting exactly what you wished for.

In a media landscape often saturated with flashy, fast-paced reboots, Five Children and It (1991) is a refreshing reminder of the value of quiet imagination and character-led storytelling. It remains a gentle, intelligent adaptation that respects its source material and treats its young audience with thoughtfulness and wit.

Verdict:
A wonderfully faithful adaptation of a children’s classic, Five Children and It captures the whimsical spirit and sly humour of E. Nesbit’s tale. With strong performances, a delightfully grumpy sand-fairy, and a series of amusing misadventures, it’s a timeless treat for families and nostalgic viewers alike.

Rating: ★★★★☆