The Psammead is an 'it', an ancient, ill-tempered sand-fairy with a spider-shaped body, bat-like ears, and snail-like eyes. It is grumpy but has the power to grant one wish a day, which must be made before sunset. Five siblings—Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane, and infant Hilary—encounter It and experience the highs and lows of frivolous wish-making.
DirectorMarilyn Fox
WritersHelen Cresswell, Edith Nesbit
Episode 1
Jan 9, 1991
A group of youngsters encounter a mysterious bad-tempered creature with the power to grant wishes.
Episode 2
Jan 16, 1991
Anthea thinks of a wish: but doesn't consider what effect it might have on the baby.
Episode 3
Jan 23, 1991
The youngsters' latest wish transforms the house into a castle : but fortunately Martha fails to notice.
Episode 4
Jan 30, 1991
The children learn an uncomfortable lesson about the implications of making rash wishes.
Episode 5
Feb 6, 1991
The relieved children think they've finally got the better of the mischievous sand fairy; but have they?
Episode 6
Feb 13, 1991
The sand fairy disappears, leaving the children to clear up an appalling mess before their mother gets home.
