As the spectre of the Black Death hovers over medieval Dublin in the fourteenth century, Kai is plucked from the filthy streets to sing in the great Christ Church choir. But Kai has a secret that must be kept hidden - even from new friends Tom and Jack. Kai will need great strength, talent and help from unexpected quarters just to survive.
Category: Historical Fiction
A vivid story of a fight for survival in darkest medieval Dublin
As the spectre of the Black Death hovers over Dublin in the fourteenth century, Kai is plucked from the filthy streets to sing in the great Christ Church choir. But Kai has a secret that must be kept hidden - even from new friends Tom and Jack.
When Jack is cruelly taken by the plague, Kai turns to the mysterious voices in the church for comfort. But Kai is not alone in the cathedral; enemies are lying in wait - hoping to destroy the singer in the most terrible way imaginable ...
Kai will need great strength, talent and help from unexpected quarters just to survive.
Eithne Massey has written many books for both adults and children, mainly based on the legends of Ireland. Her adaptation of the award-winning movie The Secret of Kells is set in the time of the early Viking raids; The Silver Stag of Bunratty and Where the Stones Sing are set in Norman Ireland; and Blood Brother, Swan Sister at the time of the Battle of Clontarf. All blend together historical detail with myths, legends and folklore, resulting in stories which will appeal to ‘young readers who enjoy an adventure with well-rounded characters and a touch of magic and history’ (www.childrensbooksireland.ie).
'a bewitching parable'
'with writing that is both evocative and lyrical, Eithne Massey has crafted a beautiful book ... as if looking at a medieval street map, the reader is drawn into the story in cinematic fashion ... the addition of short pieces told by beast or bird, clever
'brings] Ireland’s past to life through well-crafted adventures for today’s pre-teens'
'an appealing story which contains elements of the religious, the supernatural, and an important secret'
'the poetic use of language throughout is uplifting'
Download Teaching Guides: Teaching guide to the novel by Peter Heaney.
