Written and Illustrated by Ethan M. Aldridge
Every day seems the same for Agatha in her quiet valley. She tutors a young boy named Peter, avoids a boy in the village, and dreams of bigger things for her future- like going to the infamous academy and studying the stars she has always been intrigued by. Through chance she catches the attention of a woman she has never seen- one who mentions living in the hills beyond the village. As Agatha mentions this to her parents, the legend unfolds. A legend of goblins, trolls, and a witch who takes whomever she wishes with no regard for humans or feelings.
Intrigued with the magic of the Pale Queen, she lives a double life of mortal by day and assisting the Witch at night.
Eventually she meets Heather, Peter’s cousin that is visiting for the summer, which leaves Agatha more enchanted with the idea of the academy and leaving the village- specifically with Heather as her love interest. While the ancient magic turns her dreams into a nightmare reality-Agatha must decide if magic is worth the cost of the people she cares for.
Reviewed by Wyntre Tyler, Librarian, Hunter Elementary
Review shared in April 2025
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-6
The Pale Queen
Written and Illustrated by Ethan M. Aldridge
Quill Tree Books, Harper Alley, imprints of HarperCollinsPublisher
226 pages
Release Date: June 25, 2024
ISBN: 9780063247208
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
