City of Stolen Magic

April 1, 2024
A sweeping historical fantasy for middle-grade readers. Step back in time to a period when magic was part of the fabric of an undivided India that was still under British rule. Twelve-year-old Chompa is a witch, just like Ammi, her mother, though each of them wields magic very differently. Chompa's powers are put to the test when her mother is kidnapped by the Company. She comes under the tutelage of Mohsin, her mother's friend who arrives in response to Ammi's letter about the impending threat. Unfortunately, he gets there too late; Ammi has just been taken away by boat. Chompa travels from her village to the big city of Dacca and then across the sea to London, dodging danger and making new friends along the way. Fortunately, she's in the company of a motley crew of fellow magical children; magic itself is being threatened, and so are its wielders. Mischievous and memorable side characters, various djinn, and suitably evil villains all make for a fun read. The plot sags in the middle but picks up quickly. The author deftly weaves in themes of colonialism and racism to create an absorbing narrative about slavery, exploitation, and poverty, as she further explains in an author's note that contains fascinating cultural context. Prabhat's illustrations in the section openers and chapter headers are visual treats, inviting readers to linger and pore over the little nuggets tucked inside. A brave, pacy book with some spellbinding history. (glossary) (Fantasy. 9-13)

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April 19, 2024
Grades 4-7 In 1855 India, manipulation of magic is outlawed by British colonists. This is a particularly terrible blow to Chompa and her mother, Amina, as they both possess magical abilities. Amina works through written spells while Chompa wields powerful but chaotic finger magic, though Amina forbids its use, lest their secret be discovered. As feared, a reckless experiment draws attention, and British soldiers whisk Amina away. Determined to save her mother, Chompa joins forces with a friend of Amina's who reveals Chompa's djinn ancestry. They track Amina to the bustling city of Dacca, then on to London, where they discover a terrible secret: the British are amassing magical humans for nefarious purposes. It's up to Chompa to harness her powers and save her mother--and possibly the world. The marvelous mystery whisks readers around the globe, bringing each location magnificently to life via vivid descriptions. There is wonderful depth and mythology to the magic, it's easy to relate to Chompa's frustration and fear, and the diverse supporting cast makes for excellent company. A multifaceted mystery with magic to spare.

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