The Key to Rondo by Emily Rodda
It seems like it has been ages since I read something for younger children. All these adult books for review are certainly modifying my reading habits. However, I heard a lot of positive comments about this book at a recent conference, so it eventually came to the top of the list.
As the book begins Aunt Bethany has recently died leaving a music box to her nephew Leo. He has always been fascinated by the box and she knew he was responsible enough to follow the rules. However his cousin Mimi comes to stay for a few weeks and she is an established rule breaker. Without spoiling the story, I can reveal that this is a quest fantasy.
Regular readers will know that I am always crying out for fantasy novels to reflect a real cultural heritage. Rodda has accomplished this brilliantly with her references to Farmer Jack Macdonald, trolls under bridges, and lots more.
This book has been shortlisted on the CBC Younger Readers list. I haven’t read the complete list yet, but I would think this one has a very good chance of winning.
