City of Stolen Magic
A journey through magic, danger, and resilience
Nazneen Ahmed Pathak author Sandhya Prabhat illustrator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Penguin Random House Children's UK
Published:29th Jun '23
Should be back in stock very soon
Set against the backdrop of colonial India, City of Stolen Magic follows Chompa's quest to rescue her kidnapped mother, revealing the price of magic.
In City of Stolen Magic, set in India during 1855, the oppressive British rule seeks to eradicate Indian magic. Those born with magical abilities face the greatest danger, as they are being forcibly taken to England by a powerful and sinister Company. This gripping tale introduces us to Chompa, a young girl whose life is turned upside down when her home is attacked and her mother is kidnapped. With her own magical powers, which she has been taught to suppress, Chompa embarks on a perilous journey to East London in search of her mother.
As Chompa navigates the smoky streets of London, she quickly realizes that the city is fraught with treachery and danger. The magic she possesses is not just a gift but a burden that comes with dire consequences. Throughout her adventure, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, each adding depth to her journey. The story unfolds with unexpected twists, revealing the complexities of colonial history intertwined with the vibrant tapestry of magical realism.
City of Stolen Magic is a spellbinding narrative that explores themes of identity, resilience, and the struggle against oppression. With rich storytelling and a compelling heroine, this debut novel captivates readers of all ages, making it a standout addition to children's literature this year.
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
ISBN: 9780241567487
Dimensions: 197mm x 128mm x 24mm
Weight: 308g
384 pages