In the Cities of Coin and Spice Catherynne M. Valente Illustrated by Michael Kaluta Bantam Books, 2007

Her name and origins are unknown, but the endless tales inked upon the orphan's eyelids weave a spell over all who listen to her read her secret history; stories of hedgehog warriors and winged skeletons, loyal leopards and sparrow calligraphers in linked adventures of firebirds and djinn, singing manticores, mutilated unicorns, and women made entirely of glass and gears.

Exotic, monstrous and mysterious stories - immersion in this fantasy realm was a very welcome relief from the bizarre and monstrous political events arising in the US.

Deckle page edges on right side of book

517pp

Very good order

Can combine items, please ask