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Heartseer: The Tale of Anise Star

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Book Synopsis

A lush and lyrical folklore inspired fantasy adventure from a startling new talent, with a joyous magic reminiscent of Neil Gaiman and Studio Ghibli.

There are more deities and daemons in the world than stars in the sky. But only Heartseers like Anise Star can see them – because only they still believe…

Anise’s job is to help humans and daemons live happily together. But when the villainous Mr Babbitt tries to steal her home in the White Woods and drive the daemons out, she is forced to travel to the capital to ask the High King for help. First, though, she’ll have to convince him that daemons still exist.

Accompanied by loyal daemon-dog Wolf, Anise sets out on a spellbinding and treacherous journey, meeting magical musician Robin and fox god Whin, and facing the cunning Magpie Queen and a deadly poisonous ink monster. In the midst of her battles she learns that it’s not just the daemons of the White Wood she must save, but all the daemons of the world.

Our Review Panel says...

This is a beautiful and well-crafted book for 8 to 11-year-olds with flavours of Tanglewood and Robin Hood as well as touches of the first Harry Potter.

Rowan Foxwood paints thoroughly believable characters and as the story progresses we root for Anise, Robin, Wolf and Whin as they become inseparable friends and battle against the lurking dangers. Heartseer is strangely old-fashioned in some senses and sparkling new in others. Mixing the world of humans and animals; daemons and deities, readers encounter a deeply layered world with a magical history, with some candid links to our current times.

The story comes full circle for Anise by the time the last page is turned as she meets up with her brother Sage and says goodbye to her mother.

This book could be enjoyed by competent independent readers who like to curl up with a long story that burns brightly and uncovers treasures and secrets along its way. It will also last at least a term as a read-aloud book with Year Four or Five.

The back of the book contains a guide to the daemons and deities encountered in HeartSeer, as well as a song crafted by Robin and an author’s note. Recommended!