The Lost Kingdom of Bamarre

A prequel to Levine’s The Two Princesses of Bamarre, this story draws on elements of that book, including appearances from the fabled hero Drualt and the magical “seven league” boots, but is set generations earlier. Fifteen-year-old Peregrine, aka Perry, has been raised by stern but loving Lakti parents, trained in the art of war, and served by the conquered people of Bamarre. After being visited by the fairy Halina, Perry discovers that her ancestry is Bamarre, a truth her mother has kept hidden. When Perry’s father learns of her origins, Perry must flee or lose her life. In an attempt to save the Bamarre, she lives disguised among them and must confront her learned biases and rally her people against the authoritarian Lakti government. Perry’s struggle to reconcile her father’s love for her with his deep hatred of the Bamarre resonates, as does her burgeoning and nuanced definition of strength. Her growing awareness of prejudice and ethnocentrism is insightful and believable; readers will easily connect her journey to their own experiences. Ages 8–12. [em]Agent: Ginger Knowlton, Curtis Brown. (May) [/em]