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A review by kindredbooks
The Last Mapmaker by Christina Soontornvat
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I received a copy of The Last Mapmaker by Christina Soontornvat from Candlewick Press in exchange for an honest review.
A Wish in the Dark is one of my favourite middle grade reads of all time. So obviously, I knew that I had to read The Last Mapmaker, Christina Soontornvat's second middle grade novel. In this story, readers are taken to Mangkon, a kingdom set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world. Our heroine, Sai, is determined to not let her past determine her future, even that seems to be the rule of the kingdom. When she is given the opportunity to join an expedition across the seas that could change her future and fate, she jumps on it despite all the dangers that it may bring. Through her journey, Sai will discover the meaning of identity, and the choices that one needs to make to stay true to oneself. There are costs to dreams and secrets, both of which will strengthen and threaten her.
This was such a beautiful and captivating story. Once again, Christina Soontornvat weaves a magical world full of mystery and adventure. She has us thinking about how society can place restraints and limitations to its people and how the choices of individuals can change the world for the better or worse, whether they intended it or not. Truly a story that dives deep and allows readers to reflect on society - all packaged in an adventurous and magical middle grade novel. Another new favourite to add to my collection.
A Wish in the Dark is one of my favourite middle grade reads of all time. So obviously, I knew that I had to read The Last Mapmaker, Christina Soontornvat's second middle grade novel. In this story, readers are taken to Mangkon, a kingdom set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world. Our heroine, Sai, is determined to not let her past determine her future, even that seems to be the rule of the kingdom. When she is given the opportunity to join an expedition across the seas that could change her future and fate, she jumps on it despite all the dangers that it may bring. Through her journey, Sai will discover the meaning of identity, and the choices that one needs to make to stay true to oneself. There are costs to dreams and secrets, both of which will strengthen and threaten her.
This was such a beautiful and captivating story. Once again, Christina Soontornvat weaves a magical world full of mystery and adventure. She has us thinking about how society can place restraints and limitations to its people and how the choices of individuals can change the world for the better or worse, whether they intended it or not. Truly a story that dives deep and allows readers to reflect on society - all packaged in an adventurous and magical middle grade novel. Another new favourite to add to my collection.