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West of the Moon
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Check link for latest rating. ( 3,872 ratings, 631 reviews)
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
The captivating new novel about 19th century immigration to America from Margi Preus, Newbery Honor-winner and New York Times bestselling author--now in paperback!
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Description
In West of the Moon, award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Margi Preus expertly weaves original fiction with myth and folktale to tell the story of Astri, a young Norwegian girl desperate to join her father in America.
After being separated from her sister and sold to a cruel goat farmer, Astri makes a daring escape. She quickly retrieves her little sister, and, armed with a troll treasure, a book of spells and curses, and a possibly magic hairbrush, they set off for America. With a mysterious companion in tow and the malevolent "goatman" in pursuit, the girls head over the Norwegian mountains, through field and forest, and in and out of folktales and dreams as they steadily make their way east of the sun and west of the moon.
Praise for West of the Moon
FIVE STARRED REVIEWS
"Like dun silk shot thought with gold, Preus interweaves the mesmerizing tale of Astri's treacherous and harrowing mid-nineteenth-century emigration to America with bewitching tales of magic. A fascinating author's note only adds to the wonder."
--Booklist, starred review
"Norwegian history, fiction and folklore intertwine seamlessly in this lively, fantastical adventure and moving coming-of-age story."
--Kirkus Reviews, starred review
"Enthralling and unflinching, this historical tale resonates with mythical undertones that will linger with readers after the final page is turned."
--School Library Journal, starred review
"Astri is like a girl out of a fairy tale, and the native folktales that Preus weaves through the narrative serve as guides, lessons, and inspiration for her."
--Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Several Norwegian folktales are seamlessly integrated into the fast-paced, lyrically narrated story, which features a protagonist as stalwart and fearless as any fairy-tale hero."
--The Horn Book Magazine, starred review
"It's Astri's voice, however, that is most appealing: her direct, no-nonsense narration has a sharp bite, yet it also reveals the vulnerable young girl who's willing to continue to fight but is nonetheless exhausted by the weight of her struggle. The chapters have an episodic structure that makes this an ideal choice for readaloud or storytelling adaptations, while the mix of folklore, fact, and fantasy will please fans of Edith Patou's East."
--The Bulletin of The Center for Children's Books
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
West of the Moon by Margi Preus has been praised for its captivating blend of Norwegian folklore and historical fiction, making it an engaging read for young audiences. Critics appreciate the protagonist's bravery and resourcefulness, as she embarks on a quest filled with adventure and mythology. The book is noted for its rich storytelling and strong character development, which offer both educational and imaginative experiences for readers.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781419715327
Publisher: Abrams
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 08 September 2015
Country: United States
Imprint: Amulet Books
Audience: Children
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 18.0mm
Width: 140.0mm
Height: 208.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 240
About the Author
Margi Preus has written many popular plays, picture books, and novels for young readers. She has traveled the globe to research her novels and, along the way, has made friends in Japan, Norway, and many other places. She lives in Duluth, Minnesota. Visit her online at margipreus.com.
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