About This Book
Reach for this book when your child expresses frustration with physical limitations or feels like they are watching life from the sidelines. It is a beautiful choice for a child who needs to see that their inner world and dreams hold as much power as any physical journey. The story follows Max, a boy with a physical disability, who is chosen as the king of a traditional Midsummer celebration. Guided by a vivid dream, he embarks on a quest with his loyal friends to find his 'queen,' ultimately discovering his own agency and a profound sense of belonging. Through lyrical prose and a touch of folk magic, William Mayne explores themes of loyalty, self-determination, and the blurred lines between reality and imagination. It is a gentle, sophisticated read for children aged 8 to 12 that validates the emotional depth of living with a disability while celebrating the support of a true community.
