About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a major relocation or the complex feelings of joining a blended family. It is especially resonant for kids who feel like they do not quite fit into their new surroundings or are struggling to find common ground with a new sibling. Set in 1810, the story follows twelve-year-old Lucy Bluecrowne, a girl who has spent her life on a privateer ship and is suddenly forced to live a quiet life on land in Nagspeake. Her transition is interrupted when sinister figures arrive, targeting her younger half-brother, Liao, for his supernatural talent with pyrotechnics. This atmospheric adventure masterfully balances historical fiction with touches of maritime folklore and fantasy. It explores the deep sense of responsibility we feel for family, the courage required to face the unknown, and the realization that home is defined more by the people we protect than the place we live. It is a sophisticated choice for middle schoolers who enjoy high stakes and character-driven mysteries.
