A Magical Yarn
Even with the bleak subject material and setting (London sure does sound grim—more on this on the "Setting" page, though), Splendors and Glooms is still a fantasy story, and it's definitely written like one. The story is full of rich, vivid details that make the scene come alive for readers. Even the description of Lizzie Rose walking through the foggy streets of London with all of Mrs. Pinchbeck's dogs is magical and delightful:
It was a mistake. Lizzie Rose raised her chin and reproached him with her eyes. "No, thank you, sir. That isn't what I came for." She gave the leashes a jerk, gathering the dogs into a pack. "Good evening, sir." And by the time the constable had found the appropriate coin, she had gone, her dignity hampered but not overcome by her retinue of unmanageable dogs. (11.25)
Although the kids in the story are up against some terrifying stuff—namely an evil magician—the writing style still focuses on bringing out the magical aspects. That's what makes it such a fun and entertaining story instead of simply a downer.