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The absorbing story of the Cretan village of Plaka and the tiny, deserted island of Spinalonga \u2013 Greece’s former leprosy colony \u2013 is told to us by Maria Petrakis, one of the children in the original version of “The Island”.<\/p>\n The absorbing story of the Cretan village of Plaka and the tiny, deserted island of Spinalonga \u2013 Greece’s former leprosy colony \u2013 is told to us by Maria Petrakis, one of the children in the original version of “The Island”.<\/p>\n
Maria tells us of the ancient and misunderstood disease of leprosy, exploring the themes of stigma, shame and the treatment of those who are different, which are as relevant for children as adults. Gill Smith’s rich, full-colour illustrations will transport the reader to the timeless and beautiful Greek landscape and Mediterranean seascape.<\/p>\n
The tale is narrated by Maria, one of the children in Hislop\u2019s novel The Island, from which this engrossing yarn is skillfully adapted for younger readers.<\/em> I loved this book because it was so interesting to learn about the disease, but also to realise that if you are courageous like Maria even illness does not have to hold you back.<\/em> I adored this book. It is a real treasure. But please, have the box of tissues to hand. There will be tears, both of sadness and joy.<\/em> I picked this book up as soon as it arrived and couldn\u2019t put it down. My favourite things were the Greek setting and the history in the story, and I loved that the character was called Anna – best name ever! I didn\u2019t know much about this story before I read it and enjoyed finding out about the adventures. I would recommend it to my friends. I liked the illustrations too.<\/em> “\u2026a powerful story about love, stigma and hope.”<\/em>
\n\u2015 The Daily Telegraph<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n\u2015 Books Up North<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n\u2015 Fallen Star Stories<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n— Anna, Age 11 \u2015 Toppsta<\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n
\n– Mini Travellers<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nVictoria introduces Maria’s Island<\/h2>\n