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'I have no idea how long I have been incarcerated in these ancient walls . . . Let me explain how I find myself in this predicament . . .'
Set in the hot houses of a stately home in eighteenth century England, a gardener falls from grace when the Duke sets him the impossible task of growing prize pineapples fit to show off in high society.
The gardener's star falls further when he is replaced by Mr Amicus, a pineapple 'specialist', whom he believes to be a charlatan and a trickster - but nevertheless miraculously produces fruit to delight the Duke.
Determined to uncover Mr Amicus's tricks, the gardener sneaks into the pineapple house to uncover the mysterious shrouded birdcage Mr Amicus carries with him. And what he finds changes his life for ever . . .
A cautionary tale with echoes of myth and fairy tale, this bewitching fable will make you careful what you wish for - inspired by Sally Gardner's residency at Alnick Castle, Northumberland.
About the author
Sally Gardner is a multi-award-winning novelist whose work has been translated into more than twenty-two languages. Her novel MAGGOT MOON (Hot Key Books) won both the Costa Children's Book Prize and the Carnegie Medal 2013, and was followed by THE DOOR THAT LED TO WHERE. Sally's genre-defying novel THE DOUBLE SHADOW (Orion) received great critical acclaim and was also longlisted for the Carnegie Medal 2013. THE RED NECKLACE (shortlisted for 2007 Guardian Book Prize) and THE SILVER BLADE, the film rights for which have been purchased by Dominic West, are set during the French Revolution. Sally also won the 2005 Nestle Children's Book Prize for her debut novel I, CORIANDER. She is also author of the popular Wings & Co Fairy Detective Agency series and TINDER, illustrated by David Roberts (Orion). Most recently she has published a novel for adults, AN ALMOND FOR A PARROT. Follow Sally at www.sallygardner.net or on Twitter: @TheSallyGardnerRovina Cai is a freelance illustrator who works across a variety of genres. Her poetic imagery has served as book covers, posters and interior art for novels and picture books. She recently won the World Fantasy Award for best artist. Her work has also been recognised by organisations like the Society of Illustrators, and the Children's Book Council of Australia. Rovina works out of a cosy studio in Melbourne, Australia, in an old building that was once a convent and is possibly haunted.
Summary
A beautifully crafted new fairy tale with a dark twist. Be careful what you wish for.
Report
A powerful and enigmatic fable steeped in magic and mystery, thick with the scent of tropical fruit, massaged egos, tragic love and nefarious deeds. Read it, Daddy
