9This is the story of Tich, how he became a Chimney Sweep's climbing boy and found a new friend, Sootyfoot, a climbing boy's brush. Together they found a world of magic and adventure beyond the soot and grime of the chimneys of Barley Grange, which was to change Tich's life forever. As Tich grows up he finds himself manipulated by the ghosts of Barley Grange, who prompt him to dedicate himself to trying to change the lives of poor children forever, ensuring that never again will they need to climb chimneys to survive. While this is a book ostensibly written for children aged 8 - 12, as with all of Barry's books it contains messages for children and adults alike.