Book details
The Wooden Prince (Out of Abaton Book 1)
Description
The automa Pinocchio has always been duty-bound to serve in the floating palace of Venice's emperor. So when Pinocchio finds himself locked in a trunk and delivered to a new master-a wanted criminal and alchemist named Geppetto-he is curious about everything around him. But most curious is the way Pinocchio seems to be changing from a wooden servant into a living, human boy. Before Geppetto and Pinocchio can uncover the mystery surrounding the automa's transformation, Pinocchio is stolen away. Determined to find Geppetto again, Pinocchio begins a harrowing journey across the Empire, where danger in the form of half-beast outlaws and winged airmen abounds for a lost automa.Meanwhile, Princess Lazuli, the daughter of the ruler of a magical kingdom called Abaton, is also on a quest through the emperor's territory. Her father, Prester John, has been captured by the Venetian Empire, and Lazuli is desperate to rescue him. With the emperor's airmen closing in fast, Lazuli learns the only hope for saving her father-and her beloved home-lies in Pinocchio and Geppetto. In a masterful reimagining of Pinocchio, John Claude Bemis weaves an enchanting, thrilling adventure for middle-grade readers in the first installment in the Out of Abaton duology.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
336 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Engaging Retelling of a Classic Tale: 'The Wooden Prince' offers a fresh and imaginative take on the Pinocchio story, infusing it with magic, adventure, and a steampunk twist that will captivate readers looking for a new spin on a beloved classic.
- Rich World-Building: John Claude Bemis creates a vivid and intricate world in 'Out of Abaton.' The detailed descriptions and unique setting provide a lush backdrop for the story, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy and world-building.
- Dynamic Characters: The book features a cast of well-developed characters, each with their own motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. Readers will find themselves rooting for Pinocchio as he embarks on his journey to become a real boy, encountering friends and foes along the way.
- Themes of Friendship and Self-Discovery: At its heart, 'The Wooden Prince' is a tale about the importance of friendship and the journey of self-discovery. It explores deep themes such as identity, autonomy, and the meaning of humanity, making it a thought-provoking read for both young adults and older readers.