Most Popular Books by Christina Soontornvat

A 2021 Newbery Honor Book A boy on the run. A girl determined to find him. A compelling fantasy looks at issues of privilege, protest, and justice. All light in Chattana is created by one man — the Governor, who appeared after the Great Fire to bring peace and order to the city. For Pong, who was born in Namwon Prison, the magical lights represent freedom, and he dreams of the day he will be able to walk among them. But when Pong escapes from prison, he realizes that the world outside is no fairer than the one behind bars. The wealthy dine and dance under bright orb light, while the poor toil away in darkness. Worst of all, Pong’s prison tattoo marks him as a fugitive who can never be truly free. Nok, the prison warden’s perfect daughter, is bent on tracking Pong down and restoring her family’s good name. But as Nok hunts Pong through the alleys and canals of Chattana, she uncovers secrets that make her question the truths she has always held dear. Set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world, Christina Soontornvat’s twist on Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables is a dazzling, fast-paced adventure that explores the difference between law and justice — and asks whether one child can shine a light in the dark.

From Christina Soontornvat, the visionary and versatile author of two 2021 Newbery Honor Books, comes a high-seas adventure set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world. In a fantasy adventure every bit as compelling and confident in its world building as her Newbery Honor Book A Wish in the Dark, Christina Soontornvat explores a young woman’s struggle to unburden herself of the past and chart her own destiny in a world of secrets. As assistant to Mangkon’s most celebrated mapmaker, twelve-year-old Sai plays the part of a well-bred young lady with a glittering future. In reality, her father is a conman—and in a kingdom where the status of one’s ancestors dictates their social position, the truth could ruin her. Sai seizes the chance to join an expedition to chart the southern seas, but she isn’t the only one aboard with secrets. When Sai learns that the ship might be heading for the fabled Sunderlands—a land of dragons, dangers, and riches beyond imagining—she must weigh the cost of her dreams. Vivid, suspenseful, and thought-provoking, this tale of identity and integrity is as beautiful and intricate as the maps of old.

Get out the vote! In this kid-friendly picture book introduction to voting and elections, Leo''s father teaches him about the importance of every single vote, and how to use their voices to uplift their community. Leo''s dad is voting in his first election as a naturalized US citizen, and he promises to take Leo to the polls with him. Leo can''t wait! But, after his cousin Ray casts doubt on the importance of a single vote, it''ll take Leo''s class mock election results, as well as a talk with his dad to convince him that each and every vote matters. This lively picture book shows us how citizens decide who will be in charge, hitting key moments in an election, from voter registration to polling places, to staying in line, and features extensive backmatter for kids who want to dig deeper.

A little boy visits an art museum for the first time in this fun, sweet picture book about first experiences and seeing things from new perspectives. Simon is having a great time at the museum with his parents. There are slippery, slidey floors! Pigeons flying around the reflecting pool! And cheesecake in the café! But they’re not really here for any of that. No, Simon has to look at art. And more art. So. Much. Art. There’s so much art that soon Simon needs to take a break and finds somewhere to sit. From his bench, he begins to notice how many different people are visiting the museum and the many different ways they react to the art they see. Some people are alone. Some are in groups. Some people smile. Some shake their heads. Some even shed a tear. And Simon is right in the center of it, watching until he’s inspired to give all the art another try. By the end of the day, he may even find a piece that can rival a slice of cheesecake!

New picture book by a two-time Newbery Honor-winning author! The delightful story of an unconventional family of kids who learn the ups and downs of working together. Merra, Locky, Roozle, Finn, and little Jory love their ramble shamble house. It''s a lot of work taking care of the garden, the chickens, and themselves, but they all pitch in to make it easier--even Jory, who looks after the mud puddles. When they come across a picture of a "proper" house in a book, they start wondering if their own home is good enough. So they get to work "propering up" the garden, the chickens, and even the mud puddles. But the results aren''t exactly what they expected, and when their now-proper household''s youngest member goes missing, they realize that their ramble shamble home might be just right for their family, after all.

A brand new, fun filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen''s Elsa went to regular school? Princess Lina has a life any kid would envy. She lives in a massive palace in the clouds. Everyone in her family has the power to control the wind and weather. On a good day, she can even fly! She loves making lemons into lemon ice, riding wind gusts around the sky, and turning her bedroom into a real life snow globe.There''s just one thing Lina wants: to go to regular, non-magical school with her best friend Claudia. She promises to keep the icy family secret under wraps. What could go wrong? (EVERYTHING!)

From Newberry Honor winning author Christina Soontornvat comes an enchanting conclusion to the Changelings duology—Can Izzy and the Changelings find the lost King''s Key in time to save Earth? Life hasn''t been the same since Izzy found out she was a Changeling during a trip to the magical land of Faerie. Sure, she''s glad to be back on Earth with her human family, but she can''t stop thinking about the amazing friends she left behind. Even worse, Izzy can''t seem to change anymore. She can''t stand the thought of losing all ties to the one place she felt like she truly belonged. So when Izzy gets a chance to return to Faerie, she''s quick to say yes. But when a new evil threatens not only Faerie, but Earth itself, will Izzy get her magic back in time to help save everyone she loves? Praise for The Changelings: "A richly drawn fairy world that will have readers staying way up past their bedtime to read what their plucky herione, Izzy, does next."—Jen Calonita, author of the Fairy Tale Reform School series "Fresh and imaginative—new inventions on every page. I loved every ingenious twist and turn right up to the wonderfully satisfying ending."—Katherine Catmull, author of The Radiant Road and Summer and Bird. "The Changelings is charming! Perfect for readers who love stories full of magic, adventure, mystery and fairies, topped off with a satisfying and very happy ending. Soontornvat''s debut sparkles and delights!"—Nikki Loftin, author of The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy

As one of the only Asian Americans in her school, Christina confronts both well-meaning ignorance and cruel racism, but in middle school, fitting in is important, which is why she and her best friend Megan are both excited and nervous to try out for the popular cheerleading squad.

From three-time Newbery Honoree Christina Soontornvat and award-winning historian Erika Lee comes a middle grade nonfiction that shines a light on the generations of Asian Americans who have transformed the United States and who continue to shape what it means to be American. Asian American history is not made up of one single story. It’s many. And it’s a story that too often goes untold. It begins centuries before America even exists as a nation. It is connected to the histories of Western conquest and colonialism. It’s a story of migration; of people and families crossing the Pacific Ocean in search of escape, opportunity, and new beginnings. It is also the story of race and racism. Of being labeled an immigrant invasion, unfit to become citizens, and being banned, deported, and incarcerated. Of being blamed for bringing diseases into the country. It is also a story of bravery and hope. It is the story of heroes who fought for equality in the courts, on the streets, and in the schools, and who continue to fight in solidarity with others doing the same. This book is a stirring account of the ordinary people and extraordinary acts that made Asian America and the young people who are remaking America today.

From three-time Newbery honor recipient Christina Soontornvat comes a thrilling fantasy series about kids who can transform into amazing animals! Make a wish. . . During the New Year''s break, Plum and her friends travel to fancy, fashionable Nakhon City to stay with Sam and his mother, the powerful Lady Ubon. The New Year always brings food, parties, and the grand old tradition of making a wish. At first, Plum is dazzled by the big city. But under the glittering surface, many secrets lurk. Mysterious tremors that shake the ground are growing worse by the day. Nakhon''s troubles give Plum a chance to fulfill her own New Year''s wish: to do something big and meaningful with her Guardian powers. But how far will she have to go, and what will she have to give up, to make that wish come true? Perfect for reluctant readers: Under 200 pages Interior illustrations Magic and adventure

Break out your pom poms! The highly anticipated, stand-alone companion to the instant #1 bestseller The Tryout promises even more cheer, higher stakes, and relatable middle-school drama. Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier. "Raw, candid, moving, and full of heart." - Betty C. Tang, creator of the award-winning bestseller Parachute Kids "Gorgeous, heartfelt, and hilarious." - Sarah Mlynowski, New York Times bestselling author of the Whatever After series STEP UP. COMMIT. FOLLOW THROUGH. It''s eighth grade and Christina and her besties, Megan and Leanne, are once again going through the brutal trials of cheerleading tryouts. This year, Christina feels more confident: She dresses in her own style and has amazing friends, even her first crush. But what if the girls don''t all make the squad? Worse than that, Christina learns her parents'' marriage is collapsing. Suddenly, her family, her future, and her identity seem in total freefall. Can she keep it together and still make her cheerleading dreams come true?

From Newberry Honor winning author Christina Soontornvat comes a magical adventure in which Izzy must rescue her sister from a fairy land as dangerous as it is magical. All Izzy wants is for something interesting to happen in her sleepy little town. But her wish becomes all too real when a mysterious song floats through the woods and lures her little sister Hen into the forest...where she vanishes. A frantic search leads to a strange hole in the ground that Izzy enters. But on the other side, she discovers that the hole was not a hole, this place is not Earth, and Hen is not lost. She''s been stolen away to the land of Faerie, and it''s up to Izzy to bring her home. But inside Faerie, trouble is brewing—and Izzy is in way over her head. A ragtag group of outlaw Changelings offer to help, but she must decide whether a boulder that comes to life, a girl who looks like a ghost, and a boy who is also a stag can help her save Hen before it''s too late. Praise for The Changelings: "Fresh and imaginative—new inventions on every page. I loved every ingenious twist and turn right up to the wonderfully satisfying ending."—Katherine Catmull, author of The Radiant Road and Summer and Bird. "The Changelings is charming! Perfect for readers who love stories full of magic, adventure, mystery and fairies, topped off with a satisfying and very happy ending. Soontornvat''s debut sparkles and delights!"—Nikki Loftin, author of The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy Perfect for anyone looking for books: for a special 10 or 11 year old girl or boy. that can be fun homeschool materials. for readers who love a magical adventure!

From three-time Newbery honor recipient Christina Soontornvat comes a thrilling fantasy series about kids who can transform into amazing animals! Plum and her friends are traveling to the misty Bokati Island. There they will study with the mysterious Guardian Master Em, who is the keeper of the ancient forest there. The field trip comes just in time for Plum, who still can’t figure out why she’s so different from the other Novices on Lotus Island. At first, Plum doesn’t know what to make of this quiet and sometimes gloomy place. But it doesn''t take long to discover that Bokati is brimming with an incredible array of fascinating animals and plants. When an unseen force begins to destroy the trees, putting the entire ecosystem at risk, Plum and her classmates must spring into action. Plum is determined to help, even though she''s hiding secrets about her own Guardian powers from even her closest friends. Perfect for reluctant readers: Under 200 pages Interior illustrations Magic and adventure

One person. Small, quiet, insignificant. But when one person, and one person, and one person become many, they can change a planet. Spare, poetic text and breathtaking pictures invite readers on a stirring journey that gently illuminates the causes of climate change as well as how our individual and collective actions can make the world better. With calm, truthfulness, and beauty, To Change a Planet demonstrates the importance of caring for our planet. Eye popping explosions of color on every page create a stunning visual narrative that invites readers to find and follow the same characters through their daily lives and ultimately to a climate march on Washington, where their storylines converge. Clear endnotes vetted by a climate expert answer a myriad of questions in simple language. Meticulously researched and brimming with hope and hands-on solutions that will edify and empower even the youngest readers, To Change a Planet is a loving ode to our only home and vital for every child, classroom, and family. * "Earth''s beauty and fragility provide the impetus for activism in this introduction to climate change...An attractive entree to a vital subject for the youngest citizens." - Kirkus Reviews, starred review "The book''s overall tone is hopeful, centered around the conviction that, just as we can exacerbate the effects of climate change, so too can we forestall and reverse them." - School Library Journal "Has the potential to inspire all." - Shelf Awarenes

A unique account of the amazing Thai cave rescue told in a heart-racing, you-are-there style that blends suspense, science, and cultural insight. On June 23, 2018, twelve young players of the Wild Boars soccer team and their coach enter a cave in northern Thailand seeking an afternoon’s adventure. But when they turn to leave, rising floodwaters block their path out. The boys are trapped! Before long, news of the missing team spreads, launching a seventeen-day rescue operation involving thousands of rescuers from around the globe. As the world sits vigil, people begin to wonder: how long can a group of ordinary kids survive in complete darkness, with no food or clean water? Luckily, the Wild Boars are a very extraordinary "ordinary" group. Combining firsthand interviews of rescue workers with in-depth science and details of the region''s culture and religion, author Christina Soontornvat—who was visiting family in Northern Thailand when the Wild Boars went missing—masterfully shows how both the complex engineering operation above ground and the mental struggles of the thirteen young people below proved critical in the life-or-death mission. Meticulously researched and generously illustrated with photographs, this page-turner includes an author’s note describing her experience meeting the team, detailed source notes, and a bibliography to fully immerse readers in the most ambitious cave rescue in history.

From three-time Newbery honor recipient Christina Soontornvat comes a thrilling fantasy series about kids who can transform into amazing animals! Young Plum is shocked to discover that she’s been accepted to the Guardian Academy on Lotus Island, an elite school where kids learn how to transform into Guardians, magical creatures who are sworn to protect the natural world. The Guardian masters teach Plum and her friends how to communicate with animals and how to use meditation to strengthen their minds and bodies. All the kids also learn to fight, so they can protect the defenseless if needed. To her dismay, Plum struggles at school. While her classmates begin to transform into amazing creatures, Plum can’t even seem to magic up a single feather! If she can’t embrace her inner animal form soon, she’ll have to leave school ― and lose the first group of real friends she’s ever known. Perfect for reluctant readers: Under 200 pages Interior illustrations Magic and adventure

The New York Times bestselling series! Pass the magic on! This enchanting multi-author series is like American Girl with magic. In this book, written by bestselling author Sarah Mlynowski and three-time Newbery Honor recipient Christina Soontornvat, the magic bracelet comes to a girl in Texas, who ends up in a Groundhog Day-style time loop. Lucy Usathorn of Fort Worth, Texas is super excited for her class trip to the Natural History Museum, where her dad works. Sure, Ms. Brock, the strict school librarian who happens to be dating Lucy''s dad (awkward) is chaperoning, but it''ll still be the best day ever, right? Wrong! Lucy has to watch in shock and humiliation as her dad proposes to Ms. Brock. Lucy is distraught. If only she could do this whole day over from scratch... Enter the magic bracelet. It arrives in the mail, with a long letter from Addie, a girl in Columbus, Ohio, who had the bracelet last time. The bracelet grants wishes, and Lucy knows just what to wish for: a do-over day, where she''ll fix everything and most importantly, prevent her dad from proposing to Ms. Brock. The wish comes true--but not quite as Lucy expected. Her day keeps repeating over and over, and things keep getting worse in unique (and hilarious) ways. With the help of her new long-distance friends, Addie and Becca, will Lucy be able to figure her way out of this time loop...before it''s too late?

Thai American creators portray the inspirational and barrier-breaking life of Senator Tammy Duckworth in a picture-book tribute to an extraordinary woman. Senator Tammy Duckworth has logged a long list of “firsts” during her tenure as the first Thai American woman elected to Congress, including being the first woman with a disability to serve in the House and Senate. But while she dreamed of serving her country from a young age, Tammy’s path was not without its challenges. In this dramatic account, award-winning creators Christina Soontornvat and Dow Phumiruk chronicle Tammy’s journey. From her childhood fight to keep her family from homelessness, to her service in the US Army, to her recovery from grievous injuries sustained in the line of duty, Tammy never lost her determination to keep going against staggering odds. Evoking Tammy Duckworth’s spirited nature with sensitivity and joy, this uplifting account of a groundbreaking military veteran and rising political star will inspire readers to dream and achieve. Includes a time line and suggestions for further reading.

A fun-filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen''s Elsa went to regular school? Princess Lina''s BFF Claudia is desperate for a dog. So Lina decides to use her Winterheart magic to turn a puppy snow sculpture into the perfect pet. But the magical snow dog has a mind of its own -- and it''s running loose at school!Two-color interiors are packed with kid appeal!

A fun-filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen''s Elsa went to regular school? Exciting things are happening in the skies for Lina''s royal family. Her cousin, Iris, is getting married and there is going to be a BIG wedding.Best of all? Lina gets to be a flower girl in the wedding! Best, best, best of all? Claudia gets to come as Lina''s special guest! The girls are giddy as they fly up to Granddad''s castle for a weekend of pomp and circumstance. Every Windtamer, Spark-Archer, Sky-Painter, and Winterheart is in attendance in all their finery.But the excitement soon turns stressful when Lina learns one of the wedding traditions: Each guest must present a magical present to the newlyweds. What will Lina''s gift be?Magically bright two-color art inside!

A brand new, fun filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen''s Elsa went to regular school? It''s Winter Break at Hilltop Academy and Lina couldn''t be more excited. With time off from school, Lina''s parents say it''s all right for her best friend, Claudia, to come up to their cloud palace for a sleepover (as long as she double pinkie-swears never to tell the royal family secret!). Claudia can''t wait to see what it''s like to actually be a real princess! But she soon learns that all the stuffy palace protocol isn''t nearly as fun as it sounds. The girls just have to get out and play! Claudia suggests they go down to the ground and have some fun with Lina''s winter magic. They have a blast sledding and skating in the snow until an actual winter blizzard moves in. The girls are stuck on the ground, lost in the storm. They will have to get resourceful, be brave, work together - and use Lina''s magic in a creative way - if they are going to find their way out.

From three-time Newbery honor recipient Christina Soontornvat comes a thrilling fantasy series about kids who can transform into amazing animals! Return to Lotus Island! Plum is facing the most difficult test of her Guardian powers yet. Lotus Island is in danger, and there’s not much time to save this special place. Power-hungry Councilor Yurn is headed to the island with a ship full of hoverbots and a devious plan in mind: he means to take over Lotus Island and build a new city there. His plan will destroy the fragile ecosystem, including the island’s precious lotus plants. When the Guardians learn that their unique powers are dependent on the lotus flowers, they realize just how much is at stake if Yurn succeeds. Plum must rely on her smarts, her Guardian powers, and most importantly—her friends—to save Lotus Island and all it stands for. Perfect for reluctant readers: Under 200 pages Interior illustrations Magic and adventure

A fun-filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen''s Elsa went to regular school? The time has come for Princess Lina to choose her special magical weather specialty. Her cousin Jack Frost makes amazing snowflakes. Her Uncle Lee forms ice caves in glaciers. Her Great-Aunt Sunder creates winter storms on polar seas. Gulp. Everyone has chosen something so impressive. Lina''s not sure what she''s going to do-- but she''s determined to make her mark in a big way!

A brand-new, fun-filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen''s Elsa went to regular school? Princess Lina is loving groundling school. Her magic is still under wraps, she hangs out with BFF Claudia every day, and soon their class is taking a field trip to see penguins at the city aquarium! Up in the sky, Lina''s Granddad has decided to invite her mischievous cousin Jack Frost to give Lina extra tutorials in Winterheart magic. But when Jack tags along with Lina to school, his tricks wreak havoc on the big field trip. Can Lina keep her cool and save the day?

One, two, three . . . Wait, who am I missing? The Blunder kids’ head count somehow keeps falling short in this funny and familiar tale. It’s not even lunchtime, and already the ten Blunder children have messed up the laundry, the bathtub, and taking care of the animals. They are driving their mother up the wall. So she sends them out to play with just two rules: keep track of one another and make sure everyone is home by sunset. As the day draws to an end, each Blunder tries counting the others — forward and backward, in English and Spanish, and even by twos and three — but comes up with only nine. Uh-oh! Will their mother forgive the biggest blunder of all? Inspired by a common folktale, Christina Soontornvat shares a humorous story about ten kids who just can’t get things right, while Colin Jack’s adorable artwork lets readers in on the joke that each child is forgetting to count him- or herself.

¡Sal a votar! Este libro con ilustraciones atractivas para los niños es una introducción al tema de la votación y las elecciones. El papá de Leo le enseña la importancia de cada voto y cómo hacerse oír para impulsar a su comunidad. El papá de Leo va a participar en su primera elección como ciudadano de los Estados Unidos de América por naturalización, y le promete llevarlo con él a las casillas. ¡Leo no puede esperar! Pero luego de que su primo Ray pone en duda la importancia de un solo voto, será necesario que el grupo escolar de Leo lleve a cabo un simulacro de las elecciones, además de una charla con su papá, para convencerlo de que todos y cada uno de los votos importan. Este interesante libro ilustrado nos muestra cómo deciden los ciudadanos quién estará a cargo y las etapas importantes en una elección, desde el registro de votantes, hasta las casillas y formarse para votar. También contiene extenso material adicional para aquellos niños que quieran profundizar en el tema. --- Get out the vote! In the Spanish edition of this kid-friendly picture book introduction to voting and elections, Leo''s father teaches him about the importance of every single vote, and how to use their voices to uplift their community. Leo''s dad is voting in his first election as a naturalized US citizen, and he promises to take Leo to the polls with him. Leo can''t wait! But, after his cousin Ray casts doubt on the importance of a single vote, it''ll take Leo''s class mock election results, as well as a talk with his dad to convince him that each and every vote matters. This lively picture book shows us how citizens decide who will be in charge, hitting key moments in an election, from voter registration to polling places, to staying in line, and features extensive backmatter for kids who want to dig deeper.

2021年紐伯瑞文學獎銀牌獎，泰式奇幻與武俠的交會 以奇幻少年小說之筆，寫雨果《悲慘世界》之主題 於最黑暗的時代，閃耀著最高貴的信念 「法律是光，而光亮只照耀在有價值的事物上……」 總督的話語猶如夢魘，困住了被否定價值的人。 由逃犯、前科犯、典獄長之女挺身而出，告訴絕望的人們： 每個人的內心都有餘燼在燃燒。 在查塔納，所有的光都是總督一個人創造的。他在大火災之後出現，為城市帶來和平與秩序。對於出生在南原監獄的阿朋來說，光代表著自由，而他夢想著有一天他可以在其中行走。但當阿朋越獄後，他意識到外面的世界並不比監獄更公平。富人在燦爛的光球下享樂，而窮人則在黑暗中工作。最糟糕的是，阿朋的監獄紋身標誌著他是一個永遠無法真正自由的逃犯。 娜可是監獄長的完美女兒。她一心要追捕阿朋以恢復家族的榮譽。但隨著娜可在查塔納的巷弄和運河中穿梭，她發現了一些祕密，讓她質疑起從小被灌輸的真理。在這個以泰國為靈感的奇幻世界中，逃跑的男孩和決心找到他的女孩，交織出一場刺激的冒險，同時探尋著法律和正義之間的區別。 深受雨果《悲慘世界》所啟發，蘇恩托瓦巧妙建構了一場勝利的對抗，關於——小人物實現變革的巨大力量、階級壓迫與公民不服從等當代重要主題。從陰暗的監獄到寧靜的寺廟，再到繁華多彩的城市……《黑暗中的願望》幾乎擁有一部優秀小說所有吸引人的元素：富有善心的英雄、豐富多元的主題、鮮明的異國色彩、幽默的生命哲思、複雜的社會結構與人性，以及史詩般壯闊迭起的衝突。蘇恩托瓦將上述所有內涵技巧性地融合在一起，並在這部節奏明快的小說中，藉奇幻瑰麗的魔法為故事增添色彩，強化了角色們的內在情感。 這是一本自身閃耀著光芒，同時也告訴讀者如何發光發熱的小說。 【本書關鍵字】 紐伯瑞文學獎、人權教育、法治教育、法律、悲慘世界、能源危機、公民素養、泰國文化、慈悲、公民不服從、東南亞、公平正義、信念、實現改革、武俠 【本書資料】 無注音 適讀年齡：11歲以上 【本書特色】 精采描繪紐伯瑞文學獎的永恆主題 少年小說的永恆主題——描繪希望、勇氣和善心在黑暗的時代閃耀光芒，並成為小人物實現變革的巨大力量，行文巧妙、迷人、瑰麗；角色們時而激昂、時而深沉、時而純真、時而幽默的對話，也勾勒出對於美善世界的追求與願景。 宛如雨果《悲慘世界》般震撼人心 融入人性道德、階級壓迫和被公民不服從運動等重要主題，與角色們畫面十足的動作相結合，締造史詩般撼動人心、感人肺腑的閱讀體驗，其故事情節和人物塑造也與《悲慘世界》互相呼應，讓人拍案叫絕、回味無窮。 經典文學為基礎再添當代議題 以經典文學和少年小說永恆主題為基礎，再添當代議題，如小說中以「光球」這種能源作為資源、財富、自由、秩序的象徵，引導讀者反思能源和種種權力不平等之問題。 字裡行間洋溢東南亞異國風味 以泰國為故事背景原型，體驗泰式生活和泰式文化，如小乘佛教思想、僧侶、熱帶氣候、泰式美食、運河交通……帶領讀者遊歷東南亞，感受濃濃的異國風情。 傳遞真實世界並不是「非黑即白」的寓意 為了井然有序的生活，你是否願意以「個人自由」為代價？這場令人熱血沸騰的人民起義，保留了開放式的結局，並告訴讀者：人民選擇自由的同時，得學會為自由負責，引導讀者反思真實世界的複雜面貌。 得獎紀錄 ★2021年紐伯瑞文學獎銀牌獎 ★美國珍．亞當斯和平協會童書獎 ★美國德克薩斯州文學研究院最佳中高年級書得主 ★美國學校圖書館期刊年度好書 ★美國華盛頓郵報年度好書 ★美國青少年圖書館協會選書 ★美國全國公共廣播電臺青少年最喜歡的 100 本書 ★美國獨立書商聯盟（Indiebound）「下一本書書單」選書 ★奧斯丁．梅爾讀書會選書 ★LIT專案計畫讀書會選書 ★美國佛羅里達州陽光州青少年獎選書 ★新加坡紅點圖書獎入圍 ★美國羅德島州中學校圖書獎選書 ★德克薩斯精神圖書獎 震撼推薦（按姓氏筆畫列名） 吳在?╱兒童文學作家 呂昱達╱丹尼老師的公民教室創辦人、高雄新莊高中公民科教師 林美琴╱作家、讀寫教育推廣講師 邱慕泥╱戀風草青少年書房店長 徐建國╱臺北市建國高級中學校長 徐掌瑛╱財團法人國紹泌尿科學教育基金會祕書長、【樂讀拒毒 關愛守護】高年級入班志工培訓課程總策畫執行 馬鎮梅╱香港英華小學創意及出版總監 張子樟╱臺東大學兒童文學研究所前所長、文字閱讀推廣人 曹曦╱臺北市教育局國民教育輔導團、臺北市金華國小主任、臺北市立大學兼任講師、國立臺北教育大學協同教師 莊玫欣╱臺北市國教輔導團人權教育輔導小組召集人、實踐國中校長 許慧貞╱花蓮縣閱讀推動教師 陳沛慈╱閱讀推廣教師、兒童文學作家 陳慧玟╱臺北市龍門國中圖書教師 陳慧玲╱新竹市國語文輔導團員、新竹市香山國小教務主任 游涵淑╱學思達講師、新竹市竹光國中公民老師 游鴻池╱臺北市松山國小校長 黃淑貞╱小兔子書坊坊主 黃毓麟╱怪獸叔叔 楊貴智╱法律白話文運動站長、律師 葛琦霞╱悅讀學堂執行長、台灣前瞻閱讀發展協會理事長 劉安婷╱「為台灣而教」創辦人暨董事長 劉冠廷╱大恆國際法律事務所主持律師 鄭宇庭╱新手書店創辦人 蕭惠娟╱桃園市楊明國民中學公民老師、教育部性別平等教育議題輔導群諮詢委員 賴筱彤╱臉書「繪本任意門」版主、閱讀推廣人 館長小編╱小鎮圖書館館長、「館長小編的圖書館日常」粉專版主 善與惡是絕對對立的嗎？在光明與黑暗之間，其實並沒有那麼絕對的界線？好與壞有那麼分明？監獄永遠代表黑暗，法律永遠代表光明？這本書用不那麼黑白的價值觀，說了一個好聽的故事，也讓讀者重新看待自己那並沒有什麼叫絕對的人生。 ——吳在?╱兒童文學作家 曾遭祝融的查塔納因為恐懼而相信帶來光球的總督，並順從禁止明火的律法。正如曾在民主中失敗，而害怕跌跤的人們；選擇噤聲服從並催眠自己「安全比自由」重要、「經濟比公平正義」更有價值。但如同主角阿朋所說：「人不能逃離黑暗，唯一可以看穿黑暗的方法，就是點亮一盞光」。他們在曼谷街頭、仰光市集前，高舉旗幟向各地「總督」所訂下、為特定階級量身打造的「律法」說不。《黑暗中的願望》，暗喻當代的《悲慘世界》，同時也鼓舞各地舉著三指禮的鬥士，啟發孩子尋求內心的潛在光芒。 ——呂昱達╱丹尼老師的公民教室創辦人、高雄新莊高中公民科教師 從監獄開始的故事，也意味著從黑暗出發，宛如少年版的監獄風雲。孩子們能夠找到希望的光嗎？「光」是什麼？是眼睛所見的照明、是驅逐黑暗的陽光、還是啟動機具的能源、又或是書中所闡述的賜福、友誼與信念即是「光」呢？在這充滿不公不義的黑暗世界裡，令人不寒而慄，然而閱讀本書，卻令人打從心底產生暖暖的「光」。光會熄滅，也會被點燃。透過這本書，我們要告訴孩子們：「你們就是點燃光的火種。」有光，就有希望！ ——邱慕泥╱戀風草青少年書房店長 《黑暗中的願望》透過文字詳述角色，其念頭影響人物的決定與行動，形塑出各自不同命運的結果，每一個當下的抉擇背後都是其『意念』的延伸。不僅如此，本書也透過情節討論法律制定的意義，深究自由、平等的精神，將公民社會演進形成的樣態、如何覺醒，進而理性思辨的過程表現，讓我們在閱讀中有機會體會不同角色的感受，突破自己原有的想法，經歷角色心情後重新建構新的認知。 在強調圖片與影像影響力的時代，為何教育政策將閱讀能力列入重要素養之一？願意靜下心來脫離聲光刺激進入文字的方塊世界，才有機會感受人性中更細膩的一面。如果您想跟孩子討論善惡對錯黑白之外，仍有其他詮釋的可能但不知道該如何切入，如果您擔心直接討論時事因資料不易蒐證，想避免對時下人事物造成既定觀點的偏僻。來吧！來讀這本小說吧！ 閱讀素養中強調深度思考的元素與養分，在教科書上沒有！在新聞時事資訊中沒有！全包在這本小說的情節中！ ——徐掌瑛╱財團法人國紹泌尿科學教育基金會祕書長、【樂讀拒毒 關愛守護】高年級入班志工培訓課程總策畫執行 課堂上，我們總是教導孩子，民主法治是現代文明社會的基礎，如同福山在三十年前柏林圍牆倒塌時斷言，民主將成為全世界政府的最終形式。二十一世紀初期的顏色革命、現代科技與全球化的發展都挑戰了各地的極權統治，確實帶來了希望，為自由正義帶來曙光。即使在富足的生活中，我們仍需要尊重人民思想與新聞自由。 書中湛師父感慨，財富與長壽無法帶來真正的幸福，只祈求人們都能在鼾聲中好眠。本書引領讀者在黑暗中看見希望，同時也提醒我們對於未來不要過於樂觀，因為黑暗與光明將如同晝夜輪迴，繼續在歷史被書寫。 ——曹曦╱臺北市教育局國民教育輔導團、臺北市金華國小主任、臺北市立大學兼任講師、國立台北教育大學協同教師 黑暗中，會許什麼願望呢？多半，都企求光亮吧！黑暗中，誰能帶來光亮，誰就成了眾人的依託。大家跟著光走，依順著光，信服著光……掌握了光，就掌握了眾人。如果掌握光的人是您，您會怎麼運用手上的光呢？ 光，無疑是這本小說的關鍵字。從實體的光球，到師父的光、友誼的光、希望的光……，最終發現：其實人人內心都有光。內在的光，也是最有力量的光！ 這是一個引人入勝，也是發人深省的故事，很適合人權相關議題的探討。也許，就讓我們從光球開始…… ——莊玫欣╱臺北市國教輔導團人權教育輔導小組召集人、實踐國中校長 人人生而自由平等嗎？為什麼罪人之子沒有掌握自己人生的主導權？身為女子，為什麼必須花費更多精力用榮耀來獲得讚許與肯定？何謂人性尊嚴？如果法律是社會正義的最後一道防線，為何人們會倍受壓迫，進而透過公民運動去推翻它？ 原本互相不對盤的阿朋與娜可，都想擺脫悲催的命運，為自己的理想做謀劃，實現自己的價值，最終化敵為友；在這過程中，除了引領我們去思考上述問題，也著墨於友情、親情之間的背叛、理解、信任與寬恕。要成為自己心的主人，先從閱讀這本書開始吧！ ——蕭惠娟╱桃園市楊明國民中學公民老師、教育部性別平等教育議題輔導群諮詢委員 我們無法確實知道：光亮照耀的事物是不是真的是有價值的？太陽二十四小時從不間斷給予世界明亮溫暖，它是正義的代表嗎？所謂的法律就是捍衛正義嗎？處在黑暗的人們嚮往外面的光明，但沐浴在光之下，才能感受是不是真的明亮溫暖 ; 反之，接近黑暗之後，才開始對一直深信的燦爛光明存疑。 《黑暗中的願望》一書充滿疑點的情節與善惡難辨的人物，作者用充滿懸疑的方式安排了一個個謎團，讓人深陷其中，揭開層層的謎團，就能跟著角色的經歷思考，如何重新看待光明與黑暗，為自己找回想要的明亮溫暖。 ——陳慧玟╱臺北市立龍門國民中學教師、教育部閱讀磐石獎閱讀推手個人獎 一場擄獲感官的閱讀饗宴從打開書頁開始，看著琥珀色、深紅色、靛藍色、紫羅蘭色、金色……各式各樣的光球，像彩虹般絢麗地點綴著查塔納市，彷彿跌落了奇幻的書世界。但，不同的光在這裡卻代表著桎梏，束縛了勇敢，也囚禁了自由。所幸強烈又鮮明的橘子味道，能引領讀者尋覓自由之境，找到一個不論是誰都有資格擁有「光」的國度。而讀者只要能嗅出書中芒果果肉所發出的香甜，跟著阿朋靜靜等候最佳落果時機，聆聽最真誠的召喚，便能嚐到最上品的閱讀滋味。 ——陳慧玲╱新竹市國語文輔導團員、新竹市香山國小教務主任 「如果世界不是我想要的那個樣子，而黑暗也無處不在……我可以點亮一盞光，穿透黑暗！」 什麼是真正的公平？湛師父說：「我們之中誰最脆弱，誰就該得享最大的加持祝福。」這就是實質平等的精神。就算在不公平的世界裡，每個人仍然擁有選擇權，選擇做對的事。故事裡以非暴力的公民不服從行動，每個人點亮一盞光，集結眾人的力量，抵抗看似合法但卻不對的事，讓世界有機會變得更美好。因為，法律的本身不是目的，而是保障每個人能夠通往幸福的路徑。 一個繽紛燦爛的光世界裡，一場關於公平、正義、法治的少年公民行動，讀來實在過癮，太精采了！ ——游涵淑╱學思達講師、新竹市竹光國中公民老師 查塔那市遭到大火災破壞之後，救世主帶來重建的能源——光球，但是代價卻是讓他來擔任總督掌控經濟，並且為這座城市建立法律。人們要生活，就必須遵守總督的管理！但是他的管理有許多問題，讓眾多窮人無法翻身，階級越發明顯。 少年阿朋在南原監獄出生，但法律規定他必須要到十三歲才能離開。他嚮往監獄外的世界，決定偷偷離開尋找自由生活。但是法律對他的追訴，讓他看似得到自由，卻無法獲得真正的自由。 窮人使用的光（能源）與阿朋的自由，都受到總督獨裁法律的限制，也就是面臨著有形與無形的黑暗壟罩。不願意城市的能源與法律都掌握在總督手裡的人們，決心向總督發起挑戰！你認為阿朋和朋友們的願望能成功嗎？請跟著阿朋一起努力吧！改變社會的不公、不義，唯有行動才有機會實現願望！ ——游鴻池╱臺北市松山國小校長 《黑暗中的願望》直接將光與希望隨著書頁流瀉而出，牽引出我們對於公平與正義的深刻思考，光真的只照耀在有價值的事物上嗎？好人也會困在黑暗中嗎？每個人的內在都有那一道光嗎？一連串的叩問就在品嘗《黑暗中的願望》字裡行間自然浮現。此書好看的地方，就在於人物間彼此的連結，看似陌生卻又如此熟悉，同時那一層又一層堆疊持續的分辨善惡的事件，得以讓讀者窺探權力這個謎樣的糖衣。這個幻想故事足以喚醒人們在善與惡兩極的擺盪中，致力在暗黑幽谷中，尋找人與人之間彼此的情感與信任所綻放的光芒。 ——黃淑貞╱小兔子書坊坊主 打開《黑暗中的願望》，一座奇幻城市就隨著作者的想像力之筆矗立在眼前，黑暗城市中充滿各種色彩的光球，底層的人們忙碌卑微地生活著。阿朋、桑吉特與娜可的命運，就隨著手腕上的囚犯刺青以及追尋光和自由的希望交織在一起。作者汲取《悲慘世界》的故事改編，加入佛教慈悲與寬容的精神，使這本小說跳脫一般故事氛圍，充滿曖曖內含光的力量。闔上書，我久久不能自己，彷彿書中的光隨著文字傳到我的心中，產生勇氣。這本小說有不容小覷的力量，足以驅走黑暗，撼動虛假世界，找回自己與希望。 ——葛琦霞╱悅讀學堂執行長、台灣前瞻閱讀發展協會理事長 一般人都會認為，法律代表正義，然而這只是法律被期待的「應有」面貌。在現實世界的運作下，法律往往是統治者用來確保現有秩序（與利益）的工具。「既有秩序的維護者」，可能更貼近法律的「實際」面貌。那麼下一個問題是，既有的秩序真的符合正義嗎？本書透過奇幻又引人入勝的情節，輕輕地帶著讀者探討了諸多困難的倫理學與社會學難題；不著痕跡，卻又發人深省，經由阿朋、娜可等故事主角的經歷，引導年輕讀者對於法律、正義與秩序的內涵，有更深一層的理解與思考。 ——劉冠廷╱大恆國際法律事務所主持律師 生命是公平的嗎？當不公不義已屬日常；在九歲的主角眼裡，最值得等待、不惜肉身相搏的……竟只是一顆芒果？當光亮只照耀在有價值的事物上……當有人告訴你，生於黑暗就只能與黑暗共存……當明亮的金光遙不可及……你會隨波逐流？或是奮力一搏？是的！世界充滿黑暗，但，正因為黑暗無處不在，所以『人不能逃離黑暗』，『唯一可以看穿黑暗的方法 ，就是點亮一盞光。』 身處疫情未消、氣候變遷加劇的此時，或許人們需要一個好故事，讓心中餘燼得以重新燃燒，讓我們對未來未知的一切還有盼望與為之拼搏的勇氣。 難以忘記，那位會聆聽芒果的男孩，希望你也可以早點認識他！ ——賴筱彤╱臉書「繪本任意門」版主、閱讀推廣人 人生唯一不能選擇的事，就是自己的出生。 故事中的主角阿朋出生在監獄裡面，手腕上有個大大的印記，無時無刻在提醒他：「你是個囚犯。」書中重複最多次的一句話就是：「在黑暗裡出生的人，總是會再回來的。」儘管這個世界告訴你，你永遠不可能擁有光明，因為你是在黑暗裡出生的。但這個世界忘了告訴你：「雖然黑暗無所不在，唯一可以看穿黑暗的，就是點亮一盞光。」你以為的黑暗，不是真的黑暗，只是少了一盞光。「光從哪裡來？」光，從一顆善良的心開始。一無所有的阿朋，因為有一顆善良的心。善良的心會讓身旁的人伸手拉你一把，善良的心會帶你遇見其他善良的人，讓你知道自己不孤單。不為人知的過去，就像阿朋手上的印記，你想要擺脫它，就像它從來不曾出現在自己身上。書中的智者湛師父告訴阿朋：「萬一哪一天，你需要這個印記呢？」我們都曾經犯錯，但我們依然可以期待自己改變，期待這個世界變得美好。 「每個人的內在都有餘燼在燃燒。」餘燼在你我心裡，一直都在。不要小看自己的出身，也不要小看身旁的人。小小的餘燼聚集起來，可以產生大大的亮光。 ——館長小編╱小鎮圖書館館長、「館長小編的圖書館日常」粉專版主

★★★2023年紐伯瑞文學獎銀牌獎★★★ 三度榮獲紐伯瑞銀牌獎得主最新力作 泰式奇幻X海洋冒險 命運如盤龍銜尾，周而復始 唯有看到人心，才能看到真相 「我會找到方法把這一切都拋開， 即使這意味著我必須咬斷自己的尾巴才能辦到。」 賽依痛恨自己的出身。為了翻轉命運，她抓住機會，以芒空王國製圖大師的助手，搭上前往南方海域的皇家探險隊，但她並不是船上唯一藏有祕密的人。當賽依得知這艘船可能駛向傳說中龍族的故鄉「桑德蘭」——一塊危險與財富並存的土地——時，她必須權衡實現夢想的代價…… 賽依是一位十二歲的女孩，雖然出身自髒亂、被人瞧不起的沼澤地，但憑藉良好的衣服和敏捷的思維，她成為了芒空皇家海軍地圖繪製大師白雲的助手。但這個體面的身分只能維持到十三歲生日之前，屆時如果她沒有收到一條代表家族擁有高貴祖先的金手環，她地位低下的事實將無法掩蓋。 不過幸運的是，在生日到來前，白雲帶著她取得了在皇家船艦上的位置。這艘探險船艦將開往遙遠的南方，傳聞那裡有神祕大陸桑德蘭，甚至有龍。這個遠航的機會，使她終於能離開沼澤地，並遠離她的騙子父親。也因為芒空女王將給找到桑德蘭的人豐厚獎勵，賽依下定決心要找到這塊陸地，靠自己的力量翻轉社會地位，改變命運。 但隨著航行的開始，這個國家的黑暗面逐漸顯露，船上的人們也有著複雜的背景，她該決定要信任誰，以及願意為自己的未來做出什麼犧牲。 【本書關鍵字】 海洋冒險、SDG 14 保育海洋生態、SDG 15 保育陸域生態、殖民破壞、反殖民、奇幻、改變命運 【本書資料】 無注音 適讀年齡：10歲以上 【本書特色】 1.一場刺激的海上冒險，追尋著傳說中的龍族 細緻的描寫與流暢的文筆，使讀者彷彿置身波瀾壯闊的大海上，聞著鹹鹹的海風，踩著嘎吱作響的木板，展開一場追尋傳說龍族的冒險。故事節奏明快，懸疑和緊張刺激感會讓孩子們迫不及待地翻開書頁。 2.逐夢、成長、犯錯……命運皆握於自身手中 芒空是個由祖先地位決定人們社會地位的王國，王國座右銘是「牙齒即是尾巴」，意旨不管多努力，你都無法擺脫你的背景。主角雖身處這樣的國家，卻始終堅信能靠自己的努力翻轉命運，即便是犯錯，也能見其成長。 3.在泰式奇幻世界中融合SDGs、階級制度等議題 在這本充滿東方風情與神話情調的小說中，不僅可以探討階級制度與社會地位，也能深究關於發現新大陸背後帶來的資源掠奪、殖民破壞及動物獵殺問題。 得獎紀錄 ★2023年紐伯瑞文學獎銀牌獎 ★美國《紐約時報》年度最佳童書 ★美國紐約公共圖書館年度好書 ★美國芝加哥公共圖書館年度好書 ★美國青少年圖書館協會選書 ★美國YALSA青少年最佳讀物 ★美國沃特．迪恩．邁爾斯童書大獎榮譽獎 ★美國柯克斯書評年度好書 ★美國常識媒體選書 ★美國獨立書商聯盟（Indiebound）「下一本書書單」入選 ★美國兒童圖書館服務協會推薦童書 ★美國德州藍帽花童書獎入選 ★美國紐澤西花園州青少年圖書獎入選

Das Geheimnis der Verwandlung Berry kann es nicht fassen: Sie soll Schülerin der berühmten Wächter-Akademie auf der Lotusinsel werden! Dort lernen die Novizen, sich in magische Wesen zu verwandeln – die Wächter. Ihre Aufgabe ist es, alle Tiere und Pflanzen mit ihren magischen Kräften zu beschützen. Dafür werden sie umfassend ausgebildet: Die Meisterinnen und Meister der Akademie lehren sie die Sprache der Tiere und die Geheimnisse der Pflanzenkunde, die Kunst zu kämpfen und den Geist zu stärken. Das alles ist gar nicht so einfach, muss Berry bald feststellen. Allen anderen scheint die Verwandlung zu gelingen - nur sie selbst bringt noch nicht einmal ein winziges Federchen hervor! Kann es sein, dass ihre Kräfte zu schwach sind, um eine Wächterin zu werden? Aber will sie denn überhaupt eine Wächterin sein? Eins steht fest: Wenn sie ihre Bestimmung nicht bald erkennt und ihr magisches Selbst findet, muss Berry die Insel verlassen. Und die besten Freunde, die sie je hatte, wird sie nie wiedersehen ... Ein mitreißendes Fantasy-Abenteuer in einer exotischen Welt mit vielen faszinierenden magischen Wesen - für Kinder ab 8 Jahren Weitere Bände: Die Insel der magischen Wächter - Die Schattennebel