How effective is the ending of "Mister Tom"?

The ending of "Mister Tom" was very strange and surprising, especially when Zack died. I really didn't think anything as extreme would happen in the story. Everything was going along nicely in the story when under strange circumstances Zack had to go to London. It was very strange that Zack was the one who was chosen by the author to die. I think it was to symbolise how strong Willie's emotions had become. Mister Tom …

…called Rumple who was ancient. She said 'are you family' to the party because they were very friendly with each other. I was surprised that the party was amazed that Mrs Clarence had a dining-lounge-kitchen in one room. Willie was especially amazed that she had a room just for a bath and a flushing toilet. I think that the author has written a good book but as a children's book it is a bit dramatic.