On Fortune's Wheel

Cynthia Voigt. Atheneum Books, $17 (276pp) ISBN 978-0-689-31636-4

Late one night 14-year-old Birle, the innkeeper's daughter, dives into the river in rash pursuit of a supposed thief, promptly falls in love with this runaway Lord of the Kingdom and embarks with him on a world-spanning adventure. Birle and her Lord are shipwrecked on a barren coast, rescued by pirates, sold into slavery and, after many other tribulations, narrowly escape and head for home. On Fortune's Wheel , set in the same imaginary world as Jackaroo , is a lush narrative woven from elements of classic fairy tales and legends. Newbery Medalist Voigt has provided enough plot for two or three tales, compelling characterizations, keen psychological insights and a surprising, deeply rewarding ending. This novel truly has something for everyone. Ages 11-up. (Mar.)

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