About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to question the difference between outward appearances and inner worth, or when they are ready for a sophisticated adventure that celebrates wit over brute strength. This delightful Greek-inspired fantasy follows Lucian, an honest accountant who flees a corrupt court alongside a cynical donkey (who was once a poet) and a mysterious girl named Joy-in-the-Dance. Together, they navigate a world of myths where the greatest weapon is often a well-timed story. Lloyd Alexander masterfully weaves themes of integrity, the power of narrative, and the importance of finding one's own voice. It is a perfect choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy dry humor and clever wordplay. While there is plenty of peril and action, the book remains grounded in a humanist philosophy that emphasizes kindness and intellectual curiosity over magical shortcuts, making it an excellent transition from fairy tales to more complex literature.
