Check out Kidzworlds review of Frances Hardinges fantasy novel, Fly By Night.
Title: Fly By Night
Author: Frances Hardinge
Ages: 9+
Rating:
Step into a fantasy world that's completely new and exciting with Frances Hardinge's new book, Fly By Night. We have the book review right here, so check it out!
An Orphan's Tale
Twelve year-old Mosca Mye was born on a day honoring a man named Goodman Palpitattle, who was in charge of keeping flies out of the jam and butter of the town. Therefore, Mosca was named after a type of fly. Not the best start for a little girl, especially since her mother had also died during childbirth. So, from the very beginning Mosca had her work cut out for her.
Books Are Banned
As much as you might wish that books didn't exist (like when you have that big book report due), imagine a world where all books were banned and anyone found in possession of one was killed? Mosca Mye's father was a writer and lover of literature - and because of this, he was killed when Mosca was just a little girl. She was taken in by her uncle, but her ability to read caused many problems for her. She was locked up each evening in her uncle's mill and forced to take care of his accounting. One night however, Mosca plans an escape that includes breaking out a known con man, named Eponymous Clent, and heading out on the lam with him!
Fantastical Feats
Once Mosca busts her sidekick out of confinement, the pair (along with a deranged goose named Saracen) heads off on a journey cloaked in danger. Mosca and Eponymous travel throughout the Fractured Kingdom, which has been plagued with religious and political upheaval, and meet some unlikely allies. There is a big struggle in the Kingdom over who should rule the land - and Mosca ends up playing a big role in sorting things out.
The Bottom Line
Fly By Night is an intense book that tackles some deep topics. Frances Hardinge has created a fabulous world woven from fantasy and fact that is sure to lure in any fantasy lover. Even if series like Harry Potter aren't your thing, Fly By Night is a totally different brand of story that will be enjoyable for most peeps. The best part about this book is that it'll really get your brain buzzin' about important social issues like religion and politics - but it does it in a way that makes it interesting and not dry and boring!
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