Theme: swindler

The Ghosts of Gribblesea Pier

Aurelie Bonhoffen, who has grown up in the circus, discovers a remarkable family secret on her twelfth birthday that may help in dealing with a sinister man who wants to take over her family’s pier.

Descriptors: Australia, Fantasy, Intermediate (ages 9-14), Oceania » Other Themes: , , , , , , » Leave a comment

Fallen Grace

In Victorian London, impoverished fifteen-year-old orphan Grace takes care of her older but mentally unfit sister Lily, and after enduring many harsh and painful experiences, the two become the victims of a fraud perpetrated by the wealthy owners of several funeral businesses.

Descriptors: England (UK), Historical Fiction, Young Adult (ages 14-18) » Other Themes: , , , , , , , , » Leave a comment

The Emperor’s New Clothes

In this version of Andersen’s tale by John A. Rowe, the emperor loves shopping and new clothes, but he is still tricked by two rascals.

Descriptors: Denmark, Early Years (ages 2-6), Europe, Fantasy, Picture Book, Primary (ages 6-9) » Other Themes: , , , , » Leave a comment

The Magician’s Apprentice

It’s summertime 1874 and Jago Stonecipher is tired of being pushed around. The penniless apprentice of a mean-spirited magican, Jago dreams of a better life. It seems his wish is granted when he finds a mysterious message in a watch, which unexpectedly sets off a dangerous chain of events.

Descriptors: England (UK), Historical Fiction, Intermediate (ages 9-14), Mystery » Other Themes: , , , , , » Leave a comment