The Silver Gate - Softcover

Bailey, Kristin

3.51

361 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 006239858X ISBN 13: 9780062398581

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books, 2018

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A "tender and magical"* fairy-tale retelling

In shepherd boy Elric’s tiny village, people think children like his younger sister, Wynn, are changelings—left by fairies and doomed to curse all around them. As a baby, Wynn was born with developmental delays, and according to the rules, she was supposed to be abandoned in the woods.

Instead Elric’s mother saved his sister and hid her away for eleven years. They live in secret and fear of being discovered, yet their home is full of love, laughter, and singing. Wynn and Elric’s favorite song is about the Silver Gate, a beautiful fairy realm where all children are welcome.

But when their long-absent father returns to sell Wynn to the Lord’s castle as a maid, Elric realizes that folk songs and fantasies can’t protect them from the outside world. They have to run away. Still Wynn believes there’s only one place they’ll ever be safe, and it lies beyond the Silver Gate.

The road to freedom is long and treacherous. If they have any hope for survival, Elric and Wynn must learn to depend on each other above everything else—and discover the magic that always reveals itself when it seems like all is lost.

*Kirkus

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About the Author:

Kristin Bailey is the author of Into the Nightfell Wood and The Silver Gate. She grew up in the middle of the San Joaquin Valley in California. In the course of her adventures, she has worked as a zookeeper, balloon artist, and substitute teacher. Now she writes books for tweens and teens who enjoy magic and adventure as much as she does. Learn more at www.kristinbailey.com.

From School Library Journal:

Gr 3–6-Elric, though just a boy, is charged with a secret that could damage his entire family if the lord of the property discovers it—or rather, her. His father claims that Elric's younger sister, Wynn, is a changeling, switched by fairies as a baby, which explains her speech impediment and physical difficulties. Hidden away, Wynn has grown up safe and happy until her mother dies and she is alone, unaware that her father feels as if he has no choice but to offer her as a servant to the castle. Elric knows that his innocent sister will end up abused in such a situation, so he spins a story to draw Wynn into a journey toward a safer village. Along the way, they argue as many siblings do, but ultimately learn that they must forgive and support each other to survive. Bailey deftly explores bullying and the definition of "normal." VERDICT This polished, charming story is a perfect fit for fans of Shannon Hale and Jessica Day George's fairy-tale retellings as well as an excellent choice for elementary school book discussion groups.-Kerry Sutherland, Akron-Summit County Public Library, OH

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