Looking for children’s book from 1950s. Kids move to Florida into rooming house. There is a mysterious friend named Don who lives in their shed. Little sister plays under a “biscuit” (hibiscus) bush. A hurricane reveals all when Don’s father is revealed.
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“The Pink Motel” by Carol Ryrie Brink.
“No Children, No Pets,” by Marion Holland, Knopf (1956). I have my childhood copy here and here’s the little girl who hides little treasures under a “biscuit bush.” Also a mysterious man who, in the aftermath of a hurricane, turns out to be someone’s father — not of Don, as it happens, who is one of the out-of-state siblings, but of their local friend “Mike.” Loved this book as a kid. Its numerous sweet illustrations (unattributed — by the author?) strengthen its evocation of long sandy beaches and shell-collecting and other details of Florida life.
This is definitely “No Children, No Pets” by Marion Holland. It was one of my favorites growing up and show up here as a stumper every few years.
I agree. “No Children, No Pets.” One of my favorites. Received my copy from a book club. My aunt had given me a membership for my birthday, and that was the best book I received that year.