Briceland, V.
The Glass Maker’s Daughter
336p. Flux 2009. pap. $9.95.
ISBN 978-0-7387-1424-0. L
Gr 8 Up
In the medieval canal city of Cassaforte, all noble children between the ages of 11 and 16 are tested, once every 6 years, to determine which school they will attend to learn the enchantments that make the craft work of their families so valuable.
When 16-year-old Risa Divetri, a cazarra of one of the seven most important families, is not chosen for either school, she is convinced the gods have abandoned her. Only after those who can crown a new king are kidnapped does Risa begin to realize that the gods may have something greater in store for her after all.
Cassaforte is a beautifully drawn city of piazzas, gondolas, beauty, and magic. The rules of magic Briceland introduces are clear, and enough hints are present at the beginning of the novel to make Risa’s rise to importance natural. Though the quickly paced plot drives the narrative, Risa’s musings (and occasional bouts of temper) are never cut short. Her relationships with her parents, the glassmakers who work under her father, her treacherous uncle, and the beggar she rescues with the help of young guard Milo are well drawn.
Each of the characters has the feel of greater depth than readers are allowed through Risa’s eyes, and the romantic thread between her and Milo is subtle enough that it does not derail the narrative, but still tugs the heartstrings of romance seekers.
Readers will find much to love in The Glass Maker’s Daughter and its stubborn and strong-willed heroine.
–Alana Abbott, James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford, CT
School Library Journal
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