Rebecca West's "The Fountain Overflows" is a compelling novel that delves into the eccentric and often challenging lives of the Aubrey family, narrated through the perceptive eyes of young Rose. Set in early 20th-century London, the story chronicles the family's fluctuating fortunes, frequently disrupted by their brilliant yet irresponsible father, Piers, a newspaper editor prone to gambling and grand, often ill-fated, crusades. Their mother, Clare, a former concert pianist, strives to maintain stability and nurture her children's artistic talents amidst poverty and social upheaval. The narrative beautifully captures the complexities of family dynamics, the pursuit of art, and the resilience required to navigate life's unexpected turns, including encounters with poltergeists and a sensational murder trial.