Monday, October 29, 2012

Bibliophile's Corner

The Power of Poppy Pendle
by Natasha Lowe

Flap Copy Description:
"Kibet fallow da or 'Follow your passion and strive for excellence.'" Lavinia Roach, Headmistress of the exclusive Ruthersfield Academy

Poppy Pendle was born on the floor of the Patisserie Marie Claire bakery in the little town of Potts Bottom. When, as an infant, Poppy unexpectedly performs her first bit of magic, her parents, Edith and Roger, know their daughter has inherited the family gift.
But as Poppy grows up she isn't as thrilled about her magical talents. Even though she was born into a long line of witches, has inherited the extraordinary gifts of famed Great-Grandmother Mabel, and is enrolled at the exclusive Ruthersfield Academy, a school for witchcraft, she wants to be a baker instead. Making yummy lemon cakes, buttery almond cookies, chocolate melt-aways, and caramel crunch cookies is Poppy's passion - and it makes her happy. Poppy Pendle has no choice but to take matters into her own hands. Whose life is it anyway? she asks.

Natasha Lowe's debut middle grade novel, The Power of Poppy Pendle, is unique, delightful, and charming. The author turns the tables on the magical plot and has her protagonist long for the normal life of a baker. But for Poppy that life is where the magic really happens. She finds her joy and passion in creating exquisite and extraordinary desserts. This is a wonderful book for the young girl who enjoys magic and fantasy... it also reveals the importance of following your own heart. There is a bonus at the back of the book: ten of the wonderful recipes from Ms. Lowe's story! I would highly recommend The Power of Poppy Pendle to readers from the ages of eight - twelve.

To learn more about the author, Natasha Lowe, click here: http://www.natashalowe.com/about-natasha.html