The Sun and the Starlings

When Queen Stellaria (known as Queenie—she can't bear starchiness) and her court jester, Chucklegorgon, are threatened by a famine, everything starts to go wrong.  Hunted by horrors and unnerved by shape-shifting deceptions, the friends must face their own fears and find a way through shadows from the past.  They are so small and the darkness seems too big for them.  How can they save their Kingdom?  If you like 'The Chronicles of Narnia' you will love this world where loyalty and friendship are tested to the limit in a desperate battle against a hidden enemy.  

'The Sun and the Starlings' is a fantasy mystery adventure for children of nine years upwards and contains fifteen beautiful colour illustrations by the author.

'A great storyline that embodies many of the traits, morals and mores of the real world ... aspects of self-image, how we are perceived by others, gossip, adversity and relationships jump at you right off the page ... excellent for adults to read with children ....'   Archbishop Brian Putzier, Ecumenical Patriarch of the United Episcopal Catholic Communion, USA.

'The fresh, vivid narrative flows effortlessly.  Barbara weaves delightfully, drawing the reader into a tangled world of magical childhood mystery.  A piercing light in the darkness connects us with what is true and what is hidden.' Julia Avery, Western Australia.

'This book will undoubtedly keep primary school children (Middle Graders) spellbound and wanting to hear the next chapter ... I recommend it as a great classroom resource for KS2 (Middle Grade) teachers.'  - Paul Goodman. Primary Teacher, United Kingdom.

40,855 words