India,1855. There are two kinds of magic in Chompa's world. The kind her mother favours: writing-magic,which anyone can do if they take the time. Write a spell in Farsi,and wait. It's calm,controlled,safe,says Ammi. It's slow,frustrating,boring,thinks Chompa. Then there's finger-magic,which only those descended from ancient djinn are born with. Immediate,powerful - and dangerous,for every act of finger-magic leaves a trace,and comes at a price.
Growing up in an isolated village,hot-headed Chompa has never understood why her mother forbids her from using her potent finger-magic - until,one day,Chompa defies Ammi,and casts a spell. Soon after,a group of pale men attack their home and snatch Ammi. In desperate search of her mother,Chompa must travel to another world: to England,and the smoky,bustling streets of East End London,where the powerful Company is transporting magical people like her and Ammi for the most sinister purpose.
Publisher: Penguin Random House Children's UKISBN: 9780241567487Number of pages: 384Weight: 305 gDimensions: 198 x 129 x 23 mm
MEDIA REVIEWS
City of Stolen Magic is phenomenal - vivid storytelling that skilfully and unflinchingly weaves colonial history into an epic,breathtaking,magical adventure.'- Sophie Anderson
'Dazzling from start to finish. A spellbinding adventure fused with Indian folklore which sees glorious heroine Chompa journey from rural India to Victorian London as she searches for her mother.'- Abi Elphinstone
'An unexpected gem of a story. Packed with atmosphere - whether the narrow streets and red dust of Dacca or the grimy Dickensian squalor of Spittlelfields - it's populated by larger-than-life characters you will love and hate. A stellar setting,a gut-punch of a twist,and an unforgettable heroine. This has all the hallmarks of classic children's storytelling.'- Nizrana Farook
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