The Hollow Bettle

This bewitching first book in the Poisons of Caux trilogy introduces 11-year-old Ivy Manx, who lives with her apotheopath (healer) uncle Cecil in Caux, a once pleasant kingdom now “a hotbed of wickedness and general mischief” run by King Nightshade; his wife, Artilla; and the sinister Vidal Verjouce. Skills once used to heal are now used to poison, and only those who can afford one of Verjouce's Guild-certified “tasters” (who ensure food's purity) are safe. One year after the disappearance of her uncle, Ivy is forced to flee her home, pursued by agents of the Crown and the Guild, her travels taking her across Caux and revealing her fated role as her homeland's savior. Debut author Appelbaum's stylish, atmospheric prose is well matched by Taylor's warm interior illustrations (printed in green, along with the text), which offer rich, angular portraits. Caux is an enchanting, unusual setting that echoes the complexity of its heroes and villains alike. “High above the tallest trees, you can feel the land's misfortune,” Appelbaum writes. “You might feel it even pulling you in.” Ages 9–13. (Aug.)