Antonia Forest fans

So... um... I didn't realise my post yesterday was going to engender quite that much debate! Maybe this will get a discussion going with a less "poles-apart" feeling.

Who would you prefer as a best friend, Tim or Miranda? And why? And why would Tim be attracted to Lawrie, since they seem quite dissimilar? And dislike (if Nicola's feelings are correct) Nicola?

Was Peter reasonable to feel jealous of Nicola's growing friendship with Patrick? Or Nicola to feel resentful of Ginty's relationship with him? (If she did feel resentful... Would you say she was actually jealous, and if so, are her feelings for Patrick romantic or just friendly?)

Which of the Marlows would you rather have as a best friend? And why?

Discuss!