PLOT SUMMARY
Will Sparrow, sold by his father to a tavern owner to pay off a debt, runs away and joins a troupe of “Oddities and Prodigies” that travels to fairs around 16^th Century Elizabethan England. On his journey he learns that not everyone can be trusted, but that sometimes, those you think are different and untrustworthy, turn out to be the truest friends a boy on the road can ever have.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Cushman has captured the world of fairs in Elizabethan England in this tale of adventure and coming of age. The author has done extensive research in the time period and the culture surrounding the fairs that occurred throughout the countryside and in the cities of England during the 16^th century. Her descriptions of the conditions in which the travelers live, and how the “oddities” were treated will help readers relate to the characters.

Will is a relatable character who learns as he travels with the troupe from fair to fair, that you cannot judge a person based on how they look. While this story is set in times long past, the message rings true even today.

I listened to the audiobook rather that read the print version. Katherine Kellgren brings the characters to life with a variety of voices and accents that was thoroughly enjoyable.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Fascinating, sometimes seemingly preposterous, details are solidly corroborated in the informative author’s note that reflects Cushman’s extensive research.”
BOOKLIST: “Set in Elizabethan England, the novel is built upon Cushman’s thorough research and solid understanding of the period.”

CONNECTIONS (grades 5-7)
*This is a book that will prompt discussion about the world of fairs and carnivals and how people who are different should be treated fairly.  
*Look for these other works about youth on the road to adventure who encounter carnivals and fairs:
Gidwitz, A. THE INQUISITOR’S TALE. Ill. by Aly, H. Dutton Books for Young Readers. 2016. ISBN 978-0525426165 (Grades 3-5)
Noble, C.A. THE MERMAID’S SISTER. Skyscape, 2015. ISBN: 978-1477820889 (Grades 7-9)