This is a splendid quest adventure, with larger than life but believable characters, natural but humorous dialogue, and a storyline driven by whimsical inventiveness There is a refreshing originality about the story Books for Keeps A young queen who rules seven kingdoms is far too busy and important to leave her palace, so her loyal subjects send gifts from far and wide: monkeys, flamingos, giraffes, exotic fruits. But the thing that she longs for most of all has never survived the journey. Who can bring the Queen her heart's desire? Only Bartlett has the inventiveness, desperation and perseverance to complete the task. Does the Queen have the patience to keep her side of the bargain? A flamboyant adventure story full of atmosphere, wit and suspense by a wonderfully talented author.