Winner of the American Book Award (now known as the National Book Award)
An ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
When Theo agrees to print a traveling showman's pamphlet, he only thinks of the money it will bring in. Instead, it sets off a chain reaction that results in the smashing of the press and the murder of his master. Caught on the wrong side of the law, Theo must flee the city. Soon, he has teamed up with the traveling showman Count Las Bombas (who is actually a con artist) and his servant. The trio is soon joined by Mickle, a clever, strong-willed girl with a mysterious past. Performing feats that astound and amaze, the motley crew falls into a trap set by Chief Minister Cabbarus, who is determined to wrest power from the grief-stricken king. Now they must not only save themselves-they must save the kingdom...
This is the first volume in Lloyd Alexander's classic Westmark trilogy.
- ISBN10 0141310685
- ISBN13 9780141310688
- Publish Date 2 February 2002 (first published 1 January 1981)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country ZA
- Publisher Penguin Random House South Africa
- Imprint Penguin Books (South Africa)
- Format Paperback (US Mass Market)
- Pages 192
- Language English
- URL https://penguinrandomhouse.com/books/isbn/9780141310688