Overview
A quirky fairytale for bibliophiles of all ages and for those seeking the courage to be their dreadful and true selves
The magical Grand Library of Elfame is in danger! The fearsome bugbear Drabbery wants to remove books he deems “damaging,” and even threatens to close the library altogether. Shade may not be your average fairy—but she’s a champion librarian and bibliophile who won’t let censorship and suspicion ruin her dream to instill a love of books into the community of Elfame. With her friends the fast-talking Ginch and the silent but resourceful Professor, she sets out in search of help from a secret society charged with saving rare books.
Reviews
“This is a rollicking romp with themes of friendship, forgiveness, and the value of books. It calls itself ‘A Fairytale for Readers of All Ages’ and I’d feel comfortable giving it to my 10-year-old or my 13-year-old and I quite enjoyed it at age 45.” —Lara Lillibridge, author of Girlish and Mama, Mama, Only Mama
“This chubby brown protagonist full of flaws and wit and heart is quite welcome.” —Kirkus
“This isn’t just any fairy book: it’s dreadful . . . A charming read with a quirky narrator, a brazen heroine, and eccentric characters.” —Booklist
“VERDICT: A charming addition to middle grade shelves.”—School Library Journal
“. . . an unexpectedly funny ode to books and the knowledge that they bring.” —Children’s Book Review
Author Biography
Jon Etter is a high school English teacher and parent who has written for a variety of publications, including The London Journal of Fiction, Tales of the Once and Future King, and Uncommon Lands.