A stand-alone novel of magic and adventure by the renowned fantasy
author Diana Wynne Jones, who also wrote Howl's Moving Castle and the
Chrestomanci books. Almost finished upon her death in 2011, the
manuscript was completed by Diana's sister Ursula Jones, an acclaimed
novelist and actress. Publishers Weekly called The Islands of
Chaldea "a story to cherish" in their starred review.
Aileen comes from a long line of magic makers, and her aunt Beck is the
most powerful magician on Skarr. But Aileen's magic has yet to reveal
itself, even though she is old enough and it should have by now. When
Aileen is sent over the sea on a mission for the King, she worries that
she'll be useless and in the way. A powerful talking cat changes all of
that--and with every obstacle Aileen faces, she becomes stronger and
more confident, until her magic blooms. This stand-alone novel, by the
beloved and acclaimed author of such classic fantasy novels as Howl's
Moving Castle and the Chrestomanci books, will be welcomed by fans old
and new. "Jones's imaginative vigor is unabated in this last, picaresque
novel; her deft, fluid style and penchant for precise, characterful
description are amply present," proclaimed The Horn Book.