Julia Sarda spins an enthralling and evocative tale rich with layers of meaning to be unearthed.

One night, Franca has a dream about a marvellous queen. And now she feels intrigued... Eager to know more about this mystical figure, Franca shares her dream with her two younger sisters. Together, they set out on an enchanting adventure to discover the kingdom of the queen in the cave.

This is a riveting and atmospheric picture book that will surprise and enthral young readers and dreamers.

About the Author
Julia Sarda is a Spanish artist who has illustrated many books for children, including Mary Who Wrote Frankenstein by Linda Bailey, The Liszts by Kyo Maclear, and a number of classics such as Alice in Wonderland, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. She has illustrated The Wolf's Secret by Nicolas Digard and Myriam Dahman, which won Foyles Children's Book of the Year 2020. Her work has been published around the world in many languages. The Queen in the Cave is her debut to the Walker list and the first book she has both written and illustrated. She lives in Barcelona. You can find her on Instagram @juliasardaportabella.

Reviews
Three sisters sneak out for a nighttime adventure in Sarda's fantastical picture book, which taps into the wonderous imagination of childhood and hints at what lies beyond. . . . Sarda unleashes a phantasmagoric blend of beauty and eeriness in her intricate, antique-hued illustrations. . . supremely exciting. . . . An unforgettable story that will leave readers with their eyes wide open. * Booklist (starred review) *
The "wonders [are] infinite" in this surreal early reader. . . . The eye-catching illustrations feature colorful geometric objects, bright and patterned creatures, and big-eyed children whose movements are stiff, goofy, and evocative as they dare to "go where no one has ever gone before!" * Foreword Reviews *
In imagery reminiscent of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Sarda poignantly evokes the moment an eldest sister pursues a way her sisters can't go, a moment of growth and change that's reflected in the flamboyant, stylish disorientation of her illustrations. Appropriately, the book brings picture book and short story together; it's a work on the cusp, as if its very mode connotes transition. * The Horn Book *
A beautifully illustrated longform picture book that explores the unease and bravery that comes with growing up. * School Library Connection *
Mystical and sumptuously illustrated. . .a strange and beautiful story for children ages 5-9. * The Wall Street Journal *


Awards
Winner of Foreword INDIES Award 2022 (United States).



Book Information
ISBN 9781529524239
Author Julia Sarda
Format Paperback
Page Count 64
Imprint Walker Studio
Publisher Walker Books Ltd
Weight(grams) 245g
Dimensions(mm) 246mm * 192mm * 7mm