Book details
The Ugly One
Description
"[A] quiet, deeply moving story." —The BulletinTwelve-year-old Micay walks around her fifteenth-century Incan village shielding the scarred side of her face that inspired the cruel name Millay, or "Ugly One." She escapes to her huaca rock, avoiding the villagers who shun her. Her world shifts dramatically when a stranger gives her a sorry-looking baby macaw. The bird becomes her dear companion on a journey that ultimately leads her to a new role as shaman in Machu Picchu's Sacred Sun City. Told in an engaging storyteller's voice, this is a stirring tale of a girl who finds her own strength.
Age
10-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
256 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'The Ugly One' provides readers with a deep dive into the customs, beliefs, and lifestyle of the Incan civilization, offering a rich historical context and cultural education that is both engaging and informative.
- Empowering Message: The story of Micay, the protagonist, is one of overcoming adversity and embracing one's unique qualities. It serves as an inspiration for readers to accept themselves and find strength in their individuality.
- Engaging Storytelling: Leanne Statland Ellis crafts a compelling narrative that combines elements of adventure, coming-of-age, and historical fiction, keeping readers captivated from start to finish.
- Themes of Resilience and Friendship: The book explores universal themes such as resilience in the face of challenges and the importance of friendship and support systems, making it a relatable and thought-provoking read for people of all ages.