The Destiny of Minou Moonshine

Product Information

Masterful, a wonderfully original fantasy adventure that feels like a timeless classic. A brilliant new voice in the world of children's fiction."

Minou is a feisty and determined protagonist who fiercely protects and defends her friends, but when her world is upended, will Minou have the courage to step into her destiny?When Dima is killed, Minou’s future lies in the Home for Orphan Girls but, knowing she’ll hate it there, she joins a band of rebels, takes matters into her own hands and goes searching for the legendary diamond, the Dark Lady and her own destiny.

Minou, or ‘Sparrow’ as she is known to her friends, has lived on a dilapidated houseboat with her adopted Grandmother since the day she was found abandoned as a baby during the monsoon, thirteen years earlier. Their home, the former Queendom of Moonlally is suffering under the oppressive rule of a tyrannical General, but a rebel force called The Green Orchid are fighting for freedom and to restore the power of the goddess called the ‘Dark Lady’. When a terrible tragedy occurs, Minou is swept up in a thrilling adventure involving airships, mechanical elephants and ferocious crocodiles. Following on from her two poetry books, CLCC lecturer Gita Ralleigh has written her first children's novel, The Destiny of Minou Moonshine. The story of a Queendom set in an alternate colonial India, blending Frances Hardinge with Kipling'sKim. A debut rich in fantasy, friendship and faith, and an original adventure that sparkles with storytelling magic. About the Book and a goddess, the Dark Lady, who guides Minou to her destiny. I cannot wait for young readers to meet her." With the focus on faith, fate and fighting for what is right, Minou’s journey has the feel of a traditional mythical story with everyone getting their just desserts at the end.A story of rebels and queens fighting for freedom, and one girl's quest to find out who she really is. A mesmerising middle-grade Indian adventure. Gita Ralleigh builds a vivid world bursting with jeopardy in this beautifully lyrical debut. So many unexpected twists to love, including the mechanicals. Minou is a great hero - kind-hearted, brave, and full of fire."