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.