A Sydney Taylor Award Honor Book
Sydney Taylor Honor winner and National Jewish Book Award finalist Anya and the Nightingale is the magical conclusion to the Anya and the Dragon duology for middle grade readers-now in paperback!
It's been a year since a violent Viking terrorized the small village of Zmeyreka and Anya and her foolish friend Ivan saved a friendly dragon from being sacrificed for his magic.
But things still aren't safe in the kingdom of Kievan Rus'.
After embarking on a journey to bring her papa home from war, Anya discovers a powerful forest creature terrorizing travelers. But she soon learns that he's not the monster the kingdom should fear. There's an even greater evil that lurks under the city.
Can Anya stop the monster, save her papa, and find her way home? Or will the secrets of Kiev leave Anya and her friends trapped beneath the city forever?
- Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure: Join Anya on a dangerous journey through the medieval kingdom of Kievan Rus' as she fights to save her family and friends.
- Rich Slavic Folklore: Discover a world of friendly dragons, mysterious forest creatures, and ancient evils lurking in the secret tunnels beneath a bustling city.
- Jewish Fiction for Kids: A heartfelt story featuring a brave Jewish protagonist that celebrates family, tradition, and heritage in a magical setting.
- The Anya and the Dragon Duology: The magical and thrilling conclusion to the story that began in the award-winning Anya and the Dragon.
"Anya’s quest to save her father turns into an adventure that is both heartbreaking and enlightening, in this sequel to Anya and the Dragon.... A real strength is the continued growth and development of the three main characters: Anya’s PTSD and slowly growing confidence, Håkon’s struggles with his new body and need for companionship, and Ivan’s freely given heart.... A fine, maybe even better, follow-up to the original. Recommended for juvenile fantasy collections." —
School Library Journal "Once again, Pasternack pens a lively tale woven with magic and the Jewish faith, wherein friendships are tested both by circumstance and new romantic feelings, and threats are effectively neutralized through communication and compassion."
—Booklist "The characters are delightful and fully fleshed out, with believable hopes and fears. A welcome Jewish protagonist for a draconic fantasy." —
Kirkus
