City of Stolen Magic

Exhilarating, thoughtful and rich . . . Easily one of the year's best books for children * Guardian *
A wonderful writer who paints a thoroughly convincing heroine . . . Highly imaginative * Daily Telegraph *
Ahmed Pathak is a wonderful new voice; the book took her years to write, and it shows in the depth and care of each beat of the story -- Katherine Rundell
City of Stolen Magic is phenomenal - vivid storytelling that skilfully and unflinchingly weaves colonial history into an epic, breathtaking, magical adventure -- Sophie Anderson
One of the best children's books I have read in a decade . . . Cracking pace, fabulous magic system, characters, relationships, the whole package! -- Louie Stowell
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
A gripping and spellbinding fantasy woven together with threads of magic, secrets, and colonial history. An incredible cast of characters and a truly multicultural Victorian London that we don't see often enough in books -- Rashmi Sirdeshpande
Exhilarating and enthralling - I relished every page. A glorious blend of history, magic and thrilling adventure with a truly unforgettable heroine, this book is rare, rich and special -- Katherine Woodfine
A wonderfully vibrant debut . . . A vivid magical adventure filled with thrilling characters, pacy storytelling and important historical detail. Children and adults are in for such a treat -- Jasbinder Bilan
An incredible story. I'm blown away by the layers of detail and drama, along with a history we don't see spoken of enough . . . A wonderful, thought-provoking story of magic, community and power - sure to enchant readers -- Radiya Hafiza
Ahmed Pathak draws heavily on real history to open up conversations about colonialism and empire, while weaving a vivid and richly imagined adventure. A vibrant and important debut, full of magic and mystery. * The Bookseller *
Imaginative . . . Bursting with dynamic characters, atmospheric locations and a fast-paced plot * Booktrust *