Stray

Epic, rewarding, and provocative, Elissa Sussman’s original fairy tale tells the story of Aislynn, a princess who misbehaves and must give up her royal trappings and enter a life of service as a fairy godmother. Booklist wrote, “Sussman delightfully mixed dystopian tension with retold fairy tales, and the result is something wholly original.”

A cross between The Handmaid’s Tale and Wicked, with a dash of Grimm and Disney thrown in, this original fairy tale is part coming-of-age story, part adventure, part sweet romance. Will Aislynn remain true to her vows and her royal family and turn away from everything she longs for? Or will she stray from The Path and discover her own way? Includes a recipe for Fairy Godmother Bookbinder Bread, and a map.

“Sussman delightfully mixes dystopian tension with retold fairy tales, and the result is something wholly original.” - Booklist

“This fun tale will appeal to reluctant female readers.” - School Library Journal

“The creative use of the role of fairy godmother is fascinating.” - Kirkus Reviews

“The ending is exhilarating and nicely sets up for a sequel.” - San Francisco Book Review

“A particularly intriguing portrait…of a girl entrenched in a culture that shames women and their magical abilities.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books