Trapped within the oppresive warrens of the city's chimneys, young sweeper Tom longs for fresh air and freedom in this atmospheric and ghostly tale from Lucy Strange.
Young chimney sweep Tom has started seeing strange, supernatural things fairies in the flowers by the river, a soot monster crouching in the darkness of a chimney, and then the mysterious river spirit Elle. Elle joins Tom and the other children apprenticed to cruel master sweep Mister Crow. Together, they shimmy up the town's narrow, filthy chimneys. But Tom has an ominous feeling in his bones, and when he faces his most dangerous job of all, the reason for Elle's magical appearance becomes clear . . .
The River Spirit is a short, yet powerful tale that delves into the harsh realities of poverty and homelessness. Lucy Strange's storytelling prowess shines through in this historical fantasy, making it a must-read for young adults and teens.
For fans of Keith Robinson (Wolf Road), Kiran Millwood Hargrave (Julia and the Shark), A. M. Howell (The House of One Hundred Clocks), Phil Hickes (The Vanishing of Aveline Jones), and Michelle Harrison (A Storm of Sisters).