*Shortlisted

Review by Omer, Year 8, Ashcroft Technology Academy
This is a bit of a murder mystery set in the 8th century when the city of Baghdad was very important. The main character who tells the story is a young woman who is clever and talented but whose family are killed. So, she sets out to find what happened to her family. This plot and storyline made me want to read on, but the book was a bit confusing with names of places and people. I would have appreciated more explanation of these words as I read the story but there are maps and some information at the start and end that will help the reader understand what’s going on.

The story itself is quite thought provoking – a murder mystery. But overall, I found the time period interesting, I did not know anything about Baghdad before I read it. Therefore, I would recommend the book to someone who is interested in finding out more about the Middle East and who enjoys a thriller type of book. 

Review by Leah, 12, The Henry Box School
This is an amazing book. Starting with the main characters family being murdered immediately hooks you into the story. You yourself become really attached to the main character, Nardeen, as she lives her life in her teenage years through many obstacles and joys. It’s set in the Abbasid Period, when doctors would use many herbs which is key to the story. I would recommend this book to others as there is so many surprises that are hidden so well yet seem so obvious once you discover them.