WINNER OF THE WATERSTONES CHILDREN’S BOOK PRIZE 2017
Forbidden to leave her island, Isabella dreams of the faraway lands her cartographer father once mapped. When her friend disappears, she volunteers to guide the search. The world beyond the walls is a monster-filled wasteland – and beneath the dry rivers and smoking mountains, a fire demon is stirring from its sleep. Soon, following her map, her heart and an ancient myth, Isabella discovers the true end of her journey: to save the island itself.
Embark on a breathtaking adventure with Kiran Millwood Hargrave's critically acclaimed debut novel, "The Girl of Ink & Stars," a Waterstones Children's Book Prize winner that has captivated readers of all ages. This enchanting paperback edition, published by Chicken House, invites you into the captivating world of Isabella Riosse, a young girl whose life is forever changed when her close friend, Clara, vanishes without a trace. Isabella lives on the remote island of Joya, a place steeped in ancient myths and bound by a strict decree forbidding anyone from venturing beyond its protective walls. Daughter of a renowned cartographer who once charted distant lands, Isabella harbors a deep yearning to explore the world beyond her island home, fueled by her father's forgotten maps and captivating tales. When Clara disappears, Isabella courageously defies the island's laws and volunteers to lead the search party. Armed with her father's maps, her unwavering determination, and an understanding of the island's history and legends, she ventures into the perilous and uncharted territories that surround Joya. The landscape beyond the walls is a stark contrast to the familiar comforts of home. A dangerous and unforgiving wasteland awaits, fraught with mythical creatures and whispered threats. Dried-up rivers and smoking mountains hint at a hidden danger lurking beneath the surface a fire demon, stirring from a long and restless sleep, threatening to engulf the island in flames. As Isabella delves deeper into the mystery of Clara's disappearance, she discovers that her journey is not merely a search for a missing friend but a quest to save her entire island from impending doom. Guided by her heart, her father's maps, and an ancient myth, she uncovers secrets that have been buried for generations. Millwood Hargrave's writing is both lyrical and compelling, weaving together elements of mythology, adventure, and self-discovery. "The Girl of Ink & Stars" explores themes of courage, friendship, family, and the power of storytelling. It's a mesmerizing tale that resonates with readers who appreciate imaginative world-building, strong female characters, and thought-provoking narratives. This edition, with its striking cover art, invites you to immerse yourself in Isabella's world. The 240 pages are filled with suspense, intrigue, and moments of profound beauty. Whether you're a young adult seeking a thrilling adventure or an adult looking for a captivating escape, "The Girl of Ink & Stars" is a must-read. Discover the magic that awaits within its pages and join Isabella on her extraordinary journey to uncover the truth and save her island home. Don't miss out on this award-winning novel that has captured the hearts of readers worldwide!