The Cartographer's Daughter

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - retired school librarian, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 11, 2016

Review

This fantasy was originally published in the UK under the title "The Girl of Ink and Stars" with a cover illustration different from this American publication. The story is set on the island of Joya in 1524. Isabella has grown up listening to legends about the island from her mapmaker father. Since the Governor has come to the island there are no longer songbirds, only ravens. Isabella is best friends with Governor's daughter, Lupe, despite their different backgrounds. There have been some mysterious deaths on the island and when Lupe ends up missing, Isabella offers to go look for her. Isabella is a brave young girl and faces many mysterious people, creatures, and landscapes. The friendship between Isabella and Lupe grows deeper as the story progresses. The book is divided into four sections with an attractive layout. The plot is full of action making it an exciting read. I would recommend this for middle school readers who enjoy being transported into a vivid world of mystery and suspense.

Overall Book Score: very good