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Memorable First Fantasies for Children

Cover art for THE APOTHECARY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
THE APOTHECARY
by Maile Meloy, illustrated by Ian Schoenherr
"Although Janie's narration loses some of its charm and humor as the adventure escalates, its blend of history, culture and the anxiety of the time with magical "science" will keep readers just as spellbound as the characters. (art not seen) (Historical fantasy. 10-14)"
Following the paths of Neil Gaiman, Julia Alvarez and Carl Hiaasen, bestselling author Meloy (Both Ways Is the Only Way I Want It, 2009, etc.) takes a successful plunge into middle-grade fiction. Read full book review >
Cover art for WILDWOOD
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 30, 2011
WILDWOOD
by Colin Meloy, illustrated by Carson Ellis
"A satisfying blend of fantasy, adventure story, eco-fable and political satire with broad appeal; especially recommended for preteen boys. (Fantasy. 10 & up)"
Fans of Meloy's indie-rock band, The Decemberists, will recognize themes running through his engaging debut celebrating the struggle of ordinary folk (including plants and animals) to throw off tyranny and shape their destinies. Read full book review >
Cover art for KAT, INCORRIGIBLE
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011
KAT, INCORRIGIBLE
by Stephanie Burgis
"Enjoyable mayhem ensues. (Historical fantasy. 10 & up)"
Romance, humor and magic mark this brisk debut novel, the first of a trilogy set in an alternative Regency England. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE FLOATING ISLANDS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 8, 2011
Kirkus Star THE FLOATING ISLANDS
by Rachel Neumeier

Intelligent, richly detailed fantasy featuring two young cousins battered by losses, personal passions and larger events. Read full book review >
Cover art for PLAIN KATE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
PLAIN KATE
by Erin Bow
"A haunting, chilling (but never gory or graphic) tale with a fantastic girl at its center. (Fantasy. 10 & up)"
Bow's debut novel takes the stuff of Disney (spunky orphaned heroine and talking animal sidekick) and uses it to tell a surprisingly dark fantasy. Read full book review >
Cover art for DEPARTURE TIME
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2010
Kirkus Star DEPARTURE TIME
by Truus Matti, translated by Nancy Forest-Flier
"Initially perplexing and surreal, the narrative's juxtaposition of fantasy and reality eventually blends beautifully in the convincing conclusion. (Fiction. 10 & up)"
In this debut novel, two seemingly unrelated stories merge into a poignant journey from anger to acceptance. Read full book review >