Mist - by Marta Palazzesi (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Winner of the Bologna Strega Ragazzi Prize 2020

"A not-to-be-missed tale of courage and compassion."-Katherine Applegate

The incredible story of a boy's quest to give the ultimate gift to a caged wild animal: freedom.

London, 1880, 13-year-old Clay is a mud lark, scavenging on the banks of the Thames for anything he might sell for money to buy food. One day Clay goes to the camp of the circus that has newly arrived in town and meets Ollie, a girl about his age, who lives with the circus. Ollie brings him to the cage of "the last wolf in England". Mist, as he calls it, is fierce, angry, and indomitable, perhaps due to the cruel treatment of its tamers, which Clay secretly witnesses. From that moment on, Clay is resolved to give the wolf its freedom and return it to the wild. But first he must build trust with the wolf and, with Ollie's help, find a way to release Mist back into the wild. This suspenseful novel will have readers rooting for Clay and Mist as they navigate their way through the obstacles that lay in their path.

Review Quotes

"In Marta Palazzesi's spellbinding U.S. debut, readers will discover both a riveting adventure story and a fascinating historical novel. But at its heart, Mist is about the indelible bond between two remarkably resilient creatures--one boy, one wolf. A not-to-be missed tale of courage and compassion. -Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author and Newbery Medal winner for The One and Only Ivan.

"Readers of this page-turner will be unable to resist rooting for Clay and Mist. Clay is a compelling protagonist with a strong voice, and kids will eagerly follow along as he works to gain Mist's trust. A heartfelt, attention-grabbing animal adventure."-Kirkus Reviews

"[This] gritty adventure from Palazzesi, populated by numerous uniquely rendered characters, captures the high-adrenaline spirit and danger of living by one's wits, especially as Clay works to redefine his priorities and baseline for happiness while combatting financial precarity."-Publishers Weekly

"Mist brims with colorful, believable characters, nonstop action, all wrapped up in the thrilling tale of a courageous boy who will stop at nothing to do what is right."-The Reading Eagle

About the Author

MARTA PALAZZESI is an award-winning children's books writer, translator, and consultant for film production companies. She is part of the Superhero Training Center, a non-profit association that holds creative writing workshops for kids. She lives in Milan, Italy.

CHRISTOPHER TURNER is an Italian to English translator, editor, and professional writer. He has translated many children's books into English in his 30-year career including the popular Geronimo Stilton books. He lives in Wimbledon, London. Learn more at: www.chris-turner.net