This captivating original fairy tale set in the world of The Puppets of Spelhorst and The Hotel Balzaar features an exclusive color illustration and gilded edges on the first printing.
When a shoemaker discovers a tiny girl (as small as a mouse!) in his shop, he takes her in, names her Evangeline, and raises her as his own. The shoemaker's wife, however, fears that Evangeline has bewitched her husband, so when an opportunity arises to rid herself of the girl, she takes it. Evangeline finds herself far from her adopted father and her home, a tiny girl lost in the wide world. But she is brave, and she is resourceful, and with the help of those she meets on her journey--including a disdainful and self-satisfied cat--she may just find her way again. Return to the magical land of Norendy in this third original fairy tale by renowned storyteller Kate DiCamillo, perfect for savoring alone or for reading aloud with someone you love. Graced with exquisite black-and-white illustrations by Sophie Blackall, this timeless story of a girl and her father will make you believe in the impossible.
Dicamillo is a master of the craft, and it shines brightly in this delightful, mesmerizing tale. . . . Blackall's illustrations, as always, are so magical in and of themselves, that this book is made even more indispensable with their addition. Recommended for all collections.
--School Library Journal (starred review)
Drawing from the magical, fairy tale world of her recent The Puppets of Spelhorst (BCCB 10/23) and The Hotel Balzaar (BCCB 10/24), DiCamillo offers another quirky, poignant story. . . . The fairy tale atmosphere is greatly aided by Blackall's richly detailed black-and-white illustrations.
--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
In true DiCamillo fashion, the ending is suffused with the gentlest melancholy, allowing readers to either believe in their reunion or dismiss it entirely. Illustrator Blackall once more joins forces with DiCamillo to bring the more fairy tale-like elements of the book to gentle life. . . . A tender tale featuring a young protagonist who possesses equal parts yearning and spunk, to great effect.
--Kirkus Reviews
Effortlessly engrossing, as all DiCamillo stories are, this bittersweet tale is anchored by its unfaltering commitment to the importance of love, storytelling, and dreams. Blackall picks up these themes in her pencil illustrations, which are every bit as magical as the words they depict. Children, who can't help but feel small in this large world, will take heart from Evangeline's courage and adventurous spirit.
--Booklist
Kate DiCamillo is one of America's most beloved storytellers. She is a former National Ambassador for Young People's Literature and a two-time Newbery Medalist. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up in Florida and now lives in Minneapolis.
Sophie Blackall is the acclaimed illustrator of more than forty-five books for young readers and a two-time Caldecott Medalist. Born and raised in Australia, she now lives in Brooklyn.
Target Age: 7-10
Candle Wick Press (MA)
Pub Date: September 30, 2025
0.5" H x 7.9" L x 5.3" W
160 pages
hardcover