Although entirely fictional Rosie of the River" was inspired by Catherine Cooksons own experience of holidaying on the Norfolk Broads with her husband Tom. It is yet another example of the prodigious talent of Britains best-loved author. When Fred Carpenter suggests to his wife Sally that they should take a boating holiday on the Norfolk Broads she is filled with trepidation. Nevertheless she summons her courage & they & their bull-terrier Bill set off with Fred at the helm of " Dogfish Three." Sallys misgivings are soon justified as a series of disasters human nautical & canine threaten to ruin their holiday. Then everything changes as they make friends with the boating fraternity & encounter the remarkable 15-year-old Rosie whose family history stirs their curiosity & sympathy. As a result Fred & Sally decide to support Rosies efforts to better herself -- & are rewarded when she finds love & happiness."