The Islands of Chaldea [Paperback]

A stand-alone novel of magic and adventure by the renowned fantasy author Diana Wynne Jones, who also wroteHowl's Moving Castleand the Chrestomanci books. Almost finished upon her death in 2011, the manuscript was completed by Diana's sister Ursula Jones, an acclaimed novelist and actress.Publishers WeeklycalledThe Islands of Chaldea a story to cherish in their starred review.

Aileen comes from a long line of magic makers, and her aunt Beck is the most powerful magician on Skarr. But Aileen's magic has yet to reveal itself, even though she is old enough and it should have by now. When Aileen is sent over the sea on a mission for the King, she worries that she'll be useless and in the way. A powerful talking cat changes all of that—and with every obstacle Aileen faces, she becomes stronger and more confident, until her magic blooms. This stand-alone novel, by the beloved and acclaimed author of such classic fantasy novels asHowl's Moving Castleand the Chrestomanci books, will be welcomed by fans old and new. Jones's imaginative vigor is unabated in this last, picaresque novel; her deft, fluid style and penchant for precise, characterful description are amply present, proclaimedThe Horn Book.

How are you supposed to turn into a Wise Woman if your powers don't show up?

When Aileen and Aunt Beck are sent on a secret—and suspicious—quest across all the Islands of Chaldea, Aileen worries she'll only be in the way. Her aunt Beck may be the most powerful magicworker in Skarr, but Aileen's powers still haven't shown up.

But the quest is not at all what it seems, and Aileen must puzzle out her own way after Aunt Beck angers another formidable sorceress. With the help of a (mostly) invisible cat, a (surprisingly) wise parrot, and a ragtag band of allies, Aileen will see her magic bloom. And she might even rescue her missing father and save a lost prince while she's l“+