From the roof of Wickit Monastery, Pip can see far across the Fenland, with its tricky marshes and bogs. A sneeze behind him freezes his blood – is it the Will-of-the-Wisp, come to steal him away? Everyone in the monastery has their own tasks, so no one else should be on the roof.

The monks of Wickit Monastery raised Pip after his mother died of Fen fever, teaching him Latin and singing and useful cures. But they never told him that stone gargoyles could be alive or fly! A stone dragon named Perfect becomes Pip’s secret companion, traveling with him and two monks to the town of Ely as they buy medicines and supplies.

These are dangerous times in England, as the young King has just inherited the throne and many conspire to “help” him rule the land. Pip and Perfect uncover a deadly plot against King Arnald during his visit to Ely.

How can they save the King? Which nobleman is the traitor? Can Perfect stay hidden from the monks and still help Pip?

Clever drawings of the residents of Ely and Wickit Monastery (including Perfect) add zing to this exciting story of medieval days, the first book in The Wickit Chronicles. Notes at the end of the book explain more about the Fenlands, monks, and the world of Wickit.

Recommended by: Katy Manck, Librarian-at-Large (retired academic/corporate/school librarian), Gilmer, Texas, USA