Part gothic thriller and part coming-of-age story, a new illustrated middle-grade fantasy from award-winning author Frances Hardinge and acclaimed illustrator Emily Gravett about a strange island filled with ghosts and long-buried secrets.
On the misty island of Merlack, the lingering dead can cause unspeakable harm if they’re not safely carried to the island of the Broken Tower, where they can move on. Milo’s father always told him that he wasn’t suited for dealing with the dead and could never become the Ferryman of the Dead—but one day, he’s unexpectedly thrust into the role. And his father is his first passenger....
Soon after, the teenage daughter of the Lord of Merlock passes. But the Lord of Merlock isn’t prepared to give her up, and he follows Milo’s boat in pursuit, in a boat filled with armed men and two sinister magicians at his command. It’s a race to the island as Milo must face swarms of sinister moths, strange headless birds, and chillingly shrouded figures to carry his ghostly passengers across the secret seas.
Filled with suspense and Hardinge’s signature sparkling prose, this new story—accompanied throughout by striking illustrations by award-winning illustrator Emily Gravett—will keep you on the edge of your seat in this remarkable and ultimately heartwarming story of grief, family, kindness, and being true to yourself.---from the publisher
123 pages Ages 10-14
Keywords: fantasy and magic, ghosts, thriller, supernatural, paranormal, 10 year old, 11 year old, 12 year old, 13 year old, 14 year old
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The award-winning, bestselling Frances Hardinge and Emily Gravett unite for the first time to conjure up a thrilling fairy tale of ghosts and magic, highly illustrated throughout with a luscious blue ink.
On the island of Merlank, the Dead must not be allowed to linger. The very sight of their ghosts can kill you. When young Milo is thrust into the role of Ferryman following his father’s sudden death, he is the one who must carry away the Dead.
Pursued by a vengeful lord and two malignant magicians, Milo must navigate strange and perilous seas where untold threats whisper in the mist. Does he have the courage and imagination to complete his urgent mission?
From the Costa Book Award-winning Frances Hardinge, author of The Lie Tree and Unraveller, with spectacular illustrations from double Kate Greenaway Medal winner Emily Gravett, this riveting coming-of-age tale will sweep you away on an unforgettable journey.---from the publisher
Island of Whispers is a beautiful hardback glittering all over with shining silver moths, making the most exquisite gift for anybody who loves mysterious fantasy worlds, and for fans of Neil Gaiman and Kiran Millwood Hargrave.
