Critics' Opinion:
Readers' rating:
Published Mar 2008
512 pages
Genre: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Speculative, Alt. History
Publication Information
Twelve-year-old Mosca Mye hasn't got much. Her parents are dead, her cruel uncle keeps her locked away, and her only friend is her pet goose. But she does have one small, rare thing: the ability to read. In a world where books are dangerous things, this gift will change her life - but it may also be the death of her.
"Starred Review. This sophisticated tale is not for everyone. Some readers may struggle to keep track of the complex politics, history, and religion in Mosca's world, but those who appreciate the inventive plots of Cornelia Funke and Jonathan Stroud or Lloyd Alexander's colorful prose should thoroughly enjoy this highly original adventure. Grades 5-9." - School Library Journal
"[T]he character's ferocity and authentic inner turmoil, both reminiscent of Philip Pullman's Lyra Belacqua, may buoy patient readers through this overlong but charismatic first novel." - Booklist
"Starred Review. Intricate plotting, well-developed and fascinating characters, delicious humor, and exquisite worldcraft envelop readers fully into this richly imagined world." - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
"A rollicking read to be savored." - The Bookseller (UK)
"This delightful romp is bound to appeal to children and adults alike, and Mosca will be a joy to travel with in the future." - KLIATT
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Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.
Photo: David Levenson
Frances Hardinge spent her childhood in a huge, isolated old house in a small, strange village, and the two things inspired her to write strange, magical stories from an early age. She studied English at Oxford University and was bullied by a persistent friend into letting a publisher read the opening chapters of Fly By Night, her first novel, an astonishing literary debut and work of the imagination that was short-listed for the Guardian Award. She lives in Oxford, England.
Author Interview
Link to Frances Hardinge's Website
Name Pronunciation
Frances Hardinge: HAR-ding
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