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The Adventures of Lettie Peppercorn

Illustrated by Poly Bernatene
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About The Book

An alchemist peddles a new magical invention—and the key that could unlock Lettie Peppercorn’s family secrets—in this quirky “tale of self-discovery, family, and friendship” (The Independent).

Lettie Peppercorn cannot go outside. Ma told her so right before Ma disappeared forever. So Lettie’s house is on stilts, and she is stuck with only the wind and a pigeon for a friend. Nothing exciting has ever happened to her—until the night a strange merchant appears.

He claims to be an alchemist—the greatest that ever lived—and he is here to sell Lettie his newest invention. It’s an invention that could change Lettie’s life—and the world forever. An invention called “snow.”

But snow is not the only secret he holds. The alchemist knows where Lettie’s Ma is. And Lettie will do anything to get Ma back—even if it means risking her own life.

Join the brilliant and resourceful Lettie Peppercorn as she sails across the world to reunite her family and discover the truth about herself.

About The Author

Sam Gayton

Sam Gayton grew up in Kent with a cat called Archibald, a dog called Ruby, a bunch of humans, and a ghost called Kevin. He spent his days playing with Lego, and making comics with his friend Loo Loo. Nowadays, Sam still loves Lego and comics. But he also loves drinking tea (milk, no sugar), eating pizza (pepperoni, extra cheese), and wondering how long he would survive a zombie apocalypse (probably about fourteen minutes).

About The Illustrator

Poly Bernatene

Poly Bernatene was born in 1972 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and has been drawing ever since. He graduated from Buenos Aires’s art school, where he developed a great interest in managing different techniques in his work. He has worked in advertisement, animation, and comics. During the last fifteen years, he has established an exciting career as a professional illustrator, having published more than sixty children’s books in eleven countries.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books (February 2, 2016)
  • Length: 304 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781481447713
  • Ages: 8 - 12
  • Lexile ® 630L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®

Raves and Reviews

Hand this title to fans of Roald Dahl.

– School Library Journal

This British import combines familiar fantasy elements and quirky details to create a tale filled with transformation and danger...Gayton uses fanciful language that adds to the fairy-tale feel while also painting fiercely frightening portraits of his various villains.

– Kirkus Reviews

"A germ of J.K. and a pinch of Pullman."

– TES

Full of fairy-tale and fun, which should appeal to Lemony Snicket fans.

– The Daily Mail

"What ensues is a magical adventure over sea, into icebergs, and around a whaling ship, reminiscent of Roald Dahl and Lewis Carroll."

– Booklist

Awards and Honors

  • Bank Street Best Books of the Year

Resources and Downloads

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More books from this author: Sam Gayton