A tale of revenge and honour (From Western Telegraph)

A tale of revenge and honour

THE waiting is over. The winner of this year's Red House Children's Book Award has been announced.

Anthony Horowitz was presented with his prize at Kensington Roof Gardens in London, on June 14th, for his third novel in the Alex Rider series, Skeleton Key.

This month, we are featuring Lian Hearn's novel, Across the Nightingale Floor. Seasoned reviewer Nicola Clarke shares with you her opinions, and some of her beautiful original artwork inspired by the novel.

Set in medieval Japan, Across the Nightingale Floor follows the captivating tale of Takeo, whose village is brutally destroyed by the murderous warlord, Iida Sadamu. Guided by the mysterious Lord Otori Shigeru and knowing only the way of peace, he sets out on a quest of revenge, which leads him to his hidden destiny.

This is a story of intrigue and honour, love and war. What I find most incredible, is that such attention has been drawn to the imaginative descriptions and element of surprise. Nicola Clarke

Illustration: Nicola Clarke