The Islands of Chaldea - Paperback

by Diana Wynne Jones (Author), Ursula Jones (Author)

A stand-alone novel of magic and adventure by the renowned fantasy author Diana Wynne Jones, who also wrote Howl's Moving Castle and the Chrestomanci books. Almost finished upon her death in 2011, the manuscript was completed by Diana's sister Ursula Jones, an acclaimed novelist and actress. Publishers Weekly called The Islands of Chaldea "a story to cherish" in their starred review.

Aileen comes from a long line of magic makers, and her aunt Beck is the most powerful magician on Skarr. But Aileen's magic has yet to reveal itself, even though she is old enough and it should have by now. When Aileen is sent over the sea on a mission for the King, she worries that she'll be useless and in the way. A powerful talking cat changes all of that--and with every obstacle Aileen faces, she becomes stronger and more confident, until her magic blooms. This stand-alone novel, by the beloved and acclaimed author of such classic fantasy novels as Howl's Moving Castle and the Chrestomanci books, will be welcomed by fans old and new. "Jones's imaginative vigor is unabated in this last, picaresque novel; her deft, fluid style and penchant for precise, characterful description are amply present," proclaimed The Horn Book.

This final, enchanting tale from a fantasy master is perfect for young readers who love:

• An Unlikely Heroine: Aileen is convinced she has no magical talent, but when the King sends her on a dangerous mission, she must find the courage she never knew she had.
• A Magical Talking Cat: A journey across the sea becomes much more interesting with the arrival of a huge, mysterious, and very opinionated talking cat who decides to join her quest.
• A Classic Coming of Age Story: On a journey filled with strange islands and unexpected dangers, a young girl must learn to trust herself before her own unique magic can finally bloom.
• The Last Book from a Beloved Author: Discover the final enchanting adventure from Diana Wynne Jones, the legendary author of Howl's Moving Castle and the Chrestomanci series.

Front Jacket

How are you supposed to turn into a Wise Woman if your powers don't show up?

When Aileen and Aunt Beck are sent on a secret--and suspicious--quest across all the Islands of Chaldea, Aileen worries she'll only be in the way. Her aunt Beck may be the most powerful magicworker in Skarr, but Aileen's powers still haven't shown up.

But the quest is not at all what it seems, and Aileen must puzzle out her own way after Aunt Beck angers another formidable sorceress. With the help of a (mostly) invisible cat, a (surprisingly) wise parrot, and a ragtag band of allies, Aileen will see her magic bloom. And she might even rescue her missing father and save a lost prince while she's at it.

--Toronto Star

Back Jacket

How are you supposed to turn into a Wise Woman if your powers don't show up?

When Aileen and Aunt Beck are sent on a secret--and suspicious--quest across all the Islands of Chaldea, Aileen worries she'll only be in the way. Her aunt Beck may be the most powerful magicworker in Skarr, but Aileen's powers still haven't shown up.

But the quest is not at all what it seems, and Aileen must puzzle out her own way after Aunt Beck angers another formidable sorceress. With the help of a (mostly) invisible cat, a (surprisingly) wise parrot, and a ragtag band of allies, Aileen will see her magic bloom. And she might even rescue her missing father and save a lost prince while she's at it.