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The Verdigris Pawn
A boy who underestimates his power . . .
A girl with a gift long thought lost . . .
A Land ready for revolution . . .
The heir to the Land should be strong. Fierce. Ruthless. At least, that’s what Beau’s father has been telling him his whole life, since Beau is the exact opposite of what the heir should be. With little control over his future, Beau is kept locked away, just another pawn in his father’s quest for ultimate power.
That is, until Beau meets a girl who shows him the secrets his father has kept hidden. For the first time, Beau begins to question everything he’s ever been told and sets off in search of a rebel who might hold the key to setting things right.
Teaming up with a fiery runaway boy, their mission quickly turns into something far greater as sinister forces long lurking in the shadows prepare to make their final move—no matter what the cost. But it just might be Beau who wields the power he seeks . . . if he can go from pawn to player before the Land tears itself apart.
A girl with a gift long thought lost . . .
A Land ready for revolution . . .
The heir to the Land should be strong. Fierce. Ruthless. At least, that’s what Beau’s father has been telling him his whole life, since Beau is the exact opposite of what the heir should be. With little control over his future, Beau is kept locked away, just another pawn in his father’s quest for ultimate power.
That is, until Beau meets a girl who shows him the secrets his father has kept hidden. For the first time, Beau begins to question everything he’s ever been told and sets off in search of a rebel who might hold the key to setting things right.
Teaming up with a fiery runaway boy, their mission quickly turns into something far greater as sinister forces long lurking in the shadows prepare to make their final move—no matter what the cost. But it just might be Beau who wields the power he seeks . . . if he can go from pawn to player before the Land tears itself apart.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published July 13, 2021
27 people are currently reading
4070 people want to read
About the author
Alysa Wishingrad
2 books122 followersAlysa Wishingrad writes fantastical stories for young readers, tales that ask; is the truth really true? Her favorite stories are those that meld the historical with the fantastic, and that find ways to shine a light on both the things that divide and unite us all.
She is the author of Between Monsters and Marvels and The Verdigris Pawn, which was a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.
Alysa lives in the Hudson Valley with her family and two demanding rescue dogs, who are either monsters or marvels, depending on the day.
You can find her at www.alysawishingrad.com
Twitter at @awishingrad
Instagram at @alysawishingradwrites.
She is the author of Between Monsters and Marvels and The Verdigris Pawn, which was a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.
Alysa lives in the Hudson Valley with her family and two demanding rescue dogs, who are either monsters or marvels, depending on the day.
You can find her at www.alysawishingrad.com
Twitter at @awishingrad
Instagram at @alysawishingradwrites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
September 17, 2020
I’ve been trying to figure out why The Verdigris Pawn feels so much like a classic, timeless middle grade fantasy in the vein of Diana Wynne Jones or Kelly Barnhill and here’s what I’ve come up with.
This is a book that doesn’t just hand you a story; it opens a window onto one as if this world and these characters have always existed and would have gone on this journey with or without you and you’re just lucky to have stumbled upon it. It’s a world so well fleshed out that is sucks you in and lets you forget that you’re reading fantasy and not historical fiction. It’s also vast and dark and threaded with cool magic, and the central allegory of the chess-like game and its pawns made my heart very happy. This is the exact sort of book I would have devoured as a kid, but, as is the way with all great middle-grade, there is more than enough here to satisfy any adult looking to sink their teeth into a rich fantasy world.
And while The Verdigris Pawn feels timeless, it also manages to touch on some very current subjects, about megalomaniacal rulers and who gets to write history and how—but does so in a way that is subtle and never preachy and allows the reader to reach moral conclusions by themselves.
It’s epic and beautiful and heartbreaking, and Beau and Cressi will have your heart within a page.
Also, the guard characters in there made me chuckle OUT LOUD several times.
I was (very very) fortunate to read an advanced copy of the book.
This is a book that doesn’t just hand you a story; it opens a window onto one as if this world and these characters have always existed and would have gone on this journey with or without you and you’re just lucky to have stumbled upon it. It’s a world so well fleshed out that is sucks you in and lets you forget that you’re reading fantasy and not historical fiction. It’s also vast and dark and threaded with cool magic, and the central allegory of the chess-like game and its pawns made my heart very happy. This is the exact sort of book I would have devoured as a kid, but, as is the way with all great middle-grade, there is more than enough here to satisfy any adult looking to sink their teeth into a rich fantasy world.
And while The Verdigris Pawn feels timeless, it also manages to touch on some very current subjects, about megalomaniacal rulers and who gets to write history and how—but does so in a way that is subtle and never preachy and allows the reader to reach moral conclusions by themselves.
It’s epic and beautiful and heartbreaking, and Beau and Cressi will have your heart within a page.
Also, the guard characters in there made me chuckle OUT LOUD several times.
I was (very very) fortunate to read an advanced copy of the book.
September 23, 2021
What a great book! Loved this. Loved the whole concept of this story, it was so intriguing! The heir to the Land should be strong. Fierce. Ruthless. At least, that’s what Beau’s father has been telling him his whole life, since Beau is the exact opposite of what the heir should be. With little control over his future, Beau is kept locked away, just another pawn in his father’s quest for ultimate power. That is, until Beau meets a girl who shows him the secrets his father has kept hidden. For the first time, Beau begins to question everything he’s ever been told & sets off in search of a rebel who might hold the key to setting things right. Teaming up with a fiery runaway boy, their mission quickly turns into something far greater as sinister forces long lurking in the shadows prepare to make their final move—no matter what the cost. But it just might be Beau who wields the power he seeks . . . if he can go from pawn to player before the Land tears itself apart.
We have some amazing characters in here, & Cressi is my favorite. Such a strong girl, & I loved her. Every character was so great though. Most of the chapters are told in our MC Beau’s POV, but several of them go by Cressi’s POV. I loved the whole backstory of this land, it’s people, & Beau’s family. I was extremely fascinated by charmers & what they could do. Also, the game of Fist, & everything about the Verdigris Pawn-so intriguing! There’s even a revolution being plotted, a spreading deadly fever, secrets, betrayal, & messages on grief, parental pressures, justice, & doing what’s right. A great story about righting the wrongs of those who came before us, & making injustices right. This is a book of heroes who don’t know they’re the heroes to their story-but that’s how it goes with true heroes. The author wrote this like a well played game of Fist, & I’m so excited to see what she comes out with next.
I think this is a stand alone, but I wouldn’t mind more. Amazing world, characters, plot, writing, atmosphere. And full of danger, suspense, adventure, friendship, justice, magic, & hope. Highly recommend! Beautiful cover by Júlia Sardà too!💜
We have some amazing characters in here, & Cressi is my favorite. Such a strong girl, & I loved her. Every character was so great though. Most of the chapters are told in our MC Beau’s POV, but several of them go by Cressi’s POV. I loved the whole backstory of this land, it’s people, & Beau’s family. I was extremely fascinated by charmers & what they could do. Also, the game of Fist, & everything about the Verdigris Pawn-so intriguing! There’s even a revolution being plotted, a spreading deadly fever, secrets, betrayal, & messages on grief, parental pressures, justice, & doing what’s right. A great story about righting the wrongs of those who came before us, & making injustices right. This is a book of heroes who don’t know they’re the heroes to their story-but that’s how it goes with true heroes. The author wrote this like a well played game of Fist, & I’m so excited to see what she comes out with next.
I think this is a stand alone, but I wouldn’t mind more. Amazing world, characters, plot, writing, atmosphere. And full of danger, suspense, adventure, friendship, justice, magic, & hope. Highly recommend! Beautiful cover by Júlia Sardà too!💜
December 28, 2020
Middle-grade readers, get ready to be immersed in the world of The Verdigris Pawn where the rumblings of revolution threaten the power of the privileged few while a mysterious plague spreads across the Land. Where the heir to power, Beau, has spent most of his life closeted in luxury being waited on hand and foot, but is flung out of his comfortable life by the plotting of would-be usurpers to his father's power -- only to have his entire perspective changed when he encounters the lives of misery being scratched out by those living beyond the walls of the Manor. As expertly plotted as the chess-like game of Fist that the characters in the book enjoy, readers will love this debut middle grade fantasy!
December 4, 2020
This is a book I wanted to last all winter. I could cozy up to the fire and immerse myself in the world Alysa Wishingrad has created for months on end. Richly detailed, beautifully imagined, mysterious, and inspiring, I loved every moment of this ride.
As heir to the Land, Beau has been kept locked away, unaware of the brutality of his father's reign. But when he meets Cressi and begins to learn the truth, Beau's journey of discovery begins. And there is much to discover - about himself, his newfound friends, his history, and ultimately his own power.
The world of THE VERDIGRIS PAWN is so richly and vividly detailed, the reader can smell it and taste it and feel it on every page: the sawdust-laced rolls fed to the children in the Land's brutal 'Mastery House;' the sugared almonds and hand pies that are such perfect indulgences for the setting; the scents of the herbs used by the story's 'charmers.' It's all just spot-on. This is the sort of book you don't just want to read; you want to read it aloud to someone who really loves stories.
Characters, and the relationships between them, are beautifully drawn (and perfectly named... I especially loved that Beau's father is referred to as 'Himself.') Even the moments when the protagonists indulge their darker impulses are handled in such a way that the reader never stops empathizing. Those darker moments - like when jealousy causes a bitter rift between Beau and his companion, Nate - just make them feel all the more real and relatable.
"Fist," the game whose verdigris pawn inspires the title, serves as a lush, smart, and perfect metaphor for the story's themes of power, politics, and justice. And the central theme - the dire importance of using your power for good - is handled so expertly that it never feels heavy-handed, only inspiring. I felt chills more than once because this story's messages are so profoundly relevant to the world today.
I can't wait to have this on my shelf, and to recommend it to others. What an absolute gift of a read this was. Thank you to Harper Collins Children's for the advanced review copy.
As heir to the Land, Beau has been kept locked away, unaware of the brutality of his father's reign. But when he meets Cressi and begins to learn the truth, Beau's journey of discovery begins. And there is much to discover - about himself, his newfound friends, his history, and ultimately his own power.
The world of THE VERDIGRIS PAWN is so richly and vividly detailed, the reader can smell it and taste it and feel it on every page: the sawdust-laced rolls fed to the children in the Land's brutal 'Mastery House;' the sugared almonds and hand pies that are such perfect indulgences for the setting; the scents of the herbs used by the story's 'charmers.' It's all just spot-on. This is the sort of book you don't just want to read; you want to read it aloud to someone who really loves stories.
Characters, and the relationships between them, are beautifully drawn (and perfectly named... I especially loved that Beau's father is referred to as 'Himself.') Even the moments when the protagonists indulge their darker impulses are handled in such a way that the reader never stops empathizing. Those darker moments - like when jealousy causes a bitter rift between Beau and his companion, Nate - just make them feel all the more real and relatable.
"Fist," the game whose verdigris pawn inspires the title, serves as a lush, smart, and perfect metaphor for the story's themes of power, politics, and justice. And the central theme - the dire importance of using your power for good - is handled so expertly that it never feels heavy-handed, only inspiring. I felt chills more than once because this story's messages are so profoundly relevant to the world today.
I can't wait to have this on my shelf, and to recommend it to others. What an absolute gift of a read this was. Thank you to Harper Collins Children's for the advanced review copy.
December 28, 2020
An utterly delightful adventure story with characters that will stay with you for some time. I truly enjoyed how Alysa layered questions of class and privilege into the story, always keep a close eye on how choosing what is right and what is wrong is never a clear cut decision but a case of realizing that the heroes we need the most are the ones we let ourselves become.
May 28, 2021
VERDIGRIS PAWN is a timeless, pitch-perfectly written fantasy that feels like an instant classic. Complex questions around justice, inequality, responsibility, rebellion, labor rights, and power are deftly woven into a fast-paced, beautifully evoked story that would make a terrific family or classroom read-aloud. Wishingrad is a very talented worldbuilder—the Land is skillfully and vividly detailed but never bogged down by description. I loved Beau’s character, too. He’s complicated, soulful, relatable, and deeply good. I also loved Cressi’s character and the entire idea of charmers. There is so much potential here for sequels and a series. I didn’t want it to end! Bravo, Ms. Wishingrad. This one is a must-read!
December 13, 2020
I grew up playing chess, I'm currently obsessed with The Queen's Gambit on Netflix, and I love middle grade books, so I was hooked on this story from the moment I saw the cover. I had the good fortune of reading an advanced reader copy (thank you HarperCollins and NetGalley) and I'm pleased to report that the story met, and even exceeded, my high expectations. The author has created a timeless but fresh story world that manages to tackle heady themes like truth, trust, and power without feeling didactic. And readers won't be able to help but root for Beau, Cressi, and Nate as the three children embark on personal adventuress before finding out that they each are part of a larger game––one that has the power to save their country if only they can figure out who to trust and what roles they are supposed to play. Fans of chess will be especially intrigued by how the author built up on its rules to further the themes in the story.
December 27, 2020
This middle grade fantasy reads like an instant classic. Beau is the young heir to an oppressive regime, unaware of the cruelties done in his name. When he meets Cressi, a low-born girl with forbidden magical talents, he learns the truth and embarks on a quest to find a savior. The author deftly weaves in many strands--an intricate chess-like game, incisive social and political commentary, and complex friendships among multi-dimensional characters-- to create a fully realized world that immerses and mesmerizes the reader. The Verdigris Pawn entertains and delights and also asks deep questions about what one should do when faced with the truth.
May 22, 2021
Bring me the revolution! The Verdigris Pawn is a fantastic fantasy novel about politics, power, and a revolution. The best part - the kids lead it! This novel has all the elements of a classic story: injustice that needs to be put right, an unwitting hero who really comes into his own, blossoming friendships, a red herring, mystery, intrigue, and a great rescue. Beau, the protagonist, is such a sweet and wonderful character with so much goodness in his heart. I loved seeing his growth from being the naiive and mistreated heir to taking charge of his own future and doing his best to do right by his future kingdom. But equally, I loved reading about Nate and Cressi. Beau and Nate spend a large part of the book together and Wishingrad does a great job in keeping both these characters distinct and relatable. Ultimately, Cressi won me over! She's such a great character - quick to think on her feet, brave, and wonderfully good! The fantasy element of this book especially with the magical and healing properties of plants and herbs added such charm to the book! I highly recommend this book to any kid who loves fantasy but also an extremely riveting and thrilling story!
July 6, 2021
Head over to my blog for a giveaway of this book and to see the author's Top Ten Addictions: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
This book is not your typical middle grade fantasy; not only does it have a timeless, almost classical feel, it also has the complexities of an epic fantasy that you’d expect from YA or even adult books. But the story never gets so overcomplicated that a middle grade reader would feel out of their depth. In fact, I think middle grade fantasy readers will find themselves engrossed in the quick-moving plot and they’ll be rooting for these endearing characters, even when they’re making mistakes. Beau is the type of character you can’t help but love. He’s the heir to the throne, but he’s never been pampered; in fact, he’s spent his entire life in fear of his father. But, while he hasn’t exactly lived a luxurious life in the palace, he has been sheltered, and he has no idea about the abuses that the people of his kingdom have been suffering. When his eyes are opened, he’s thrown into a real-life strategy game that he isn’t sure he can win. There are numerous twists and turns in the story, so Beau is never quite sure who to trust (and neither is the reader!). Kids who enjoy fantasy will love the touches of magic to the story and fans of adventure will find the danger that Beau and his friends run into thrilling. And it all leads to an utterly satisfying action-packed ending! What more could you ask for?
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review purposes. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
This book is not your typical middle grade fantasy; not only does it have a timeless, almost classical feel, it also has the complexities of an epic fantasy that you’d expect from YA or even adult books. But the story never gets so overcomplicated that a middle grade reader would feel out of their depth. In fact, I think middle grade fantasy readers will find themselves engrossed in the quick-moving plot and they’ll be rooting for these endearing characters, even when they’re making mistakes. Beau is the type of character you can’t help but love. He’s the heir to the throne, but he’s never been pampered; in fact, he’s spent his entire life in fear of his father. But, while he hasn’t exactly lived a luxurious life in the palace, he has been sheltered, and he has no idea about the abuses that the people of his kingdom have been suffering. When his eyes are opened, he’s thrown into a real-life strategy game that he isn’t sure he can win. There are numerous twists and turns in the story, so Beau is never quite sure who to trust (and neither is the reader!). Kids who enjoy fantasy will love the touches of magic to the story and fans of adventure will find the danger that Beau and his friends run into thrilling. And it all leads to an utterly satisfying action-packed ending! What more could you ask for?
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review purposes. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
July 29, 2021
“The smart warrior always assumes your opponent knows as much, if not more than you.”
The Verdigris Pawn is so, so full of depth - a story of empowerment, loyalty, & courage - all in the package of a mysterious adventure story. (And chess lovers will especially love that aspect!)
Incredibly done!
“Don’t just stand there… it’s time to play.”
“What do you smell from me?
Right now? Hesitation.”
“In that brief moment with her arms were thrown around his neck, Beau understood what he was feeling was bigger than relief, wider than guilt or regret. It was deeper than sadness, anger, or unbounded joy. It was as if a part of himself had been restored.”
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned by living through this piece of history,” Beau wrote, “it’s in order to live, to thrive, to win the day, you have to be willing to follow fate where it leads, trusting you are exactly who and where you need to be.”
The Verdigris Pawn is so, so full of depth - a story of empowerment, loyalty, & courage - all in the package of a mysterious adventure story. (And chess lovers will especially love that aspect!)
Incredibly done!
“Don’t just stand there… it’s time to play.”
“What do you smell from me?
Right now? Hesitation.”
“In that brief moment with her arms were thrown around his neck, Beau understood what he was feeling was bigger than relief, wider than guilt or regret. It was deeper than sadness, anger, or unbounded joy. It was as if a part of himself had been restored.”
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned by living through this piece of history,” Beau wrote, “it’s in order to live, to thrive, to win the day, you have to be willing to follow fate where it leads, trusting you are exactly who and where you need to be.”
April 17, 2022
The Verdigris Pawn left me feeling like I fell in love with a classic before it became iconic. It is a fabulous story full of adventure and friendships, with genuinely remarkable world-building. It is so good that I can't stop recommending it to both readers AND writers. I also felt deeply connected to the characters, both main and minor, while being delightfully entertained by the humorous ones. There were thoughtful lessons to be had in this tale, but they grew organically through the pages and they leave the young reader feeling wiser for having discovered them on their own. Everyone is going to love Wishingrad's world and like me, they will be impatiently waiting to continue the journey.
March 17, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this new middle grade fantasy classic! Characters took action, worked out their problems, and came together to make their world better -- mostly without help from adults. Highly recommend.
May 6, 2021
I've recently finished up a Diana Wynne Jones' reading spree, so I was delighted that this adventure gave a similar tone and has that classical, heartwarming vibe. The stakes are high from the very first chapter, and one of my favourite aspects of the story are the multi-layered complex characters; many of whom are morally gray, and will make you continuously question who is the villain. I love how Beau, Cressi and Nate developed friendships and companionship out of survival, and the author does not shy away from addressing hard themes like class and privilege, all while taking us along on a fun and fantastic adventure. I really want to read more stories set in this world! Thanks to the author and publisher for this eARC.
July 17, 2021
I loved this book! Reading The Verdigris Pawn is like sitting on a soft, overstuffed armchair and sinking beyond story into childhood itself. Distilled by fervent ideals, Beau’s journey is one of confusion, misunderstandings, treacherous paths, and fractured friendships. Traitors, villains and magic charms keep the pages turning and remind us that no matter how old we are, if we listen to our own voice and follow the truth, we will make whatever world we inhabit a better place.
July 20, 2021
Amazing book. It was one of my most anticipated books of the year. I took my time with it and savoured it. It is beautifully written with a wonderful commentary on justice, society, and power. If you’re a school librarian or a middle grade teacher, buy this book, teach this book. Get this book into the hands of middle graders and teenagers. Full of action and heart and character development, this one definitely lived up to my expectations.
July 24, 2021
The Verdigris Pawn is a timeless and classic middle grade adventure book that was a delight to read. I loved the characters and the story world was completely immersive and fun to read. Beau is such a wonderful character that is such a great example for young readers.
I had a fun time reading this fantastic book and getting lost in the world Alysa Wishingrad created. very unique and special story I enjoyed.
I had a fun time reading this fantastic book and getting lost in the world Alysa Wishingrad created. very unique and special story I enjoyed.
January 7, 2021
An absolutely brilliant, fun, exciting and relevant read. The characters are vulnerable yet strong and go on such visible and relatable journeys, the action is non-stop, and the world building detailed and vivid. I loved this one and think most MG readers will too.
August 23, 2021
This was a special one for sure.
November 10, 2021
I am finally reviewing The Verdigris Pawn by Alysa Wishingrad! As an aspiring middle grade fantasy author, I’m trying to read more modern books of this genre. I am thrilled I picked up this one!
Beau, the heir to the Land, is nothing like his father. He lives a sheltered life, unaware of the true history of his homeland. When he leaves his apartment, though, Cressi, a girl with magic powers, opens his eyes to the horrors of the Manor and the plague-ravaged world. Beau runs away with the help of a boy named Nate to find his “ace,” the one that will help them revolutionize the Land. Cressi, too, searches for them, their three destinies inseparably intertwined. I will start by echoing what many others have said: The Verdigris Pawn is an instant classic. It has a timeless feel that’s hard to pin down. The plot and world building are so rich and vibrant that it feels more like an adult story in some ways, but it’s never confusing or too advanced for the intended audience. Engrossing and accessible, this story brings high fantasy drama to middle grade—and it works so perfectly. It’s also nice to see a fantasy that just features humans for once (as much as I love elves and all!)
The characters are great. I loved Beau and Doone. Nate’s headstrong nature can be frustrating, but it’s part of the charm of his character. The plot takes twists and turns that are brilliant. I love the magic of charming and how it uses plants, and I could not put the book down during the climax! I have so many good things to say about this story, but the number one thing I can say is: read it!
I have this book on Kindle, but I definitely want to pick up a physical copy sometime! I’m so happy this book got published, and I hope it serves as an example that classic fantasy is in high demand for the middle grade market!
Beau, the heir to the Land, is nothing like his father. He lives a sheltered life, unaware of the true history of his homeland. When he leaves his apartment, though, Cressi, a girl with magic powers, opens his eyes to the horrors of the Manor and the plague-ravaged world. Beau runs away with the help of a boy named Nate to find his “ace,” the one that will help them revolutionize the Land. Cressi, too, searches for them, their three destinies inseparably intertwined. I will start by echoing what many others have said: The Verdigris Pawn is an instant classic. It has a timeless feel that’s hard to pin down. The plot and world building are so rich and vibrant that it feels more like an adult story in some ways, but it’s never confusing or too advanced for the intended audience. Engrossing and accessible, this story brings high fantasy drama to middle grade—and it works so perfectly. It’s also nice to see a fantasy that just features humans for once (as much as I love elves and all!)
The characters are great. I loved Beau and Doone. Nate’s headstrong nature can be frustrating, but it’s part of the charm of his character. The plot takes twists and turns that are brilliant. I love the magic of charming and how it uses plants, and I could not put the book down during the climax! I have so many good things to say about this story, but the number one thing I can say is: read it!
I have this book on Kindle, but I definitely want to pick up a physical copy sometime! I’m so happy this book got published, and I hope it serves as an example that classic fantasy is in high demand for the middle grade market!
October 26, 2021
Is this a kids' book about the very adult nature of power and what people will do to retain it? Or is it a fantasy novel about several young people learning that their fantasies of how the world work are totally wrong? Or is this a far-ranging adventure about a trio of kids who end up where they started, except with a new understanding of their own truth?
It's all of those, as Alysa Wishingrad has written a beautiful debut novel full of shifting perspectives, magic, games, strategy and the highest of stakes, all while cozying up to the most time-honored tropes and then turning them on their sides, knocked over like a surrendered chess piece.
While I won't recap the story for fear of spoilers, the narrative moves quickly, propelled by the trio of the heir Beau, the magical Cressi and the rebellious Nate, each knocked out of their intended orbits by this realm's version of fate and the author moves them across a vast chessboard, tantalizing the readers with near-misses and tricking the audience with false assumptions. The magic in this world is more organic and emotional than the flashy fireworks and arcane acrobatics in most fantasy stories for middle grade readers, and the result is something that feels more tangible and possible.
Just like the chess-inspired game of Fist within the book, this novel has taken something familiar and transformed it into something more nuanced; a fantasy book for younger readers that invites them to ask questions they can take with them into the real world.
It's all of those, as Alysa Wishingrad has written a beautiful debut novel full of shifting perspectives, magic, games, strategy and the highest of stakes, all while cozying up to the most time-honored tropes and then turning them on their sides, knocked over like a surrendered chess piece.
While I won't recap the story for fear of spoilers, the narrative moves quickly, propelled by the trio of the heir Beau, the magical Cressi and the rebellious Nate, each knocked out of their intended orbits by this realm's version of fate and the author moves them across a vast chessboard, tantalizing the readers with near-misses and tricking the audience with false assumptions. The magic in this world is more organic and emotional than the flashy fireworks and arcane acrobatics in most fantasy stories for middle grade readers, and the result is something that feels more tangible and possible.
Just like the chess-inspired game of Fist within the book, this novel has taken something familiar and transformed it into something more nuanced; a fantasy book for younger readers that invites them to ask questions they can take with them into the real world.
July 1, 2021
THE VERDIGRIS PAWN has the feel of a modern classic and will appeal to readers looking for a magical adventure; an immersive fantasy world; magic potions and charms; characters who are not what they seem; a land that needs liberating; and strong middle grade characters who piece together the truth and use their wits and bravery to do the right thing.
Middle grade readers will eagerly follow Beau and Cressi as they discover who they are and what they are truly capable of. They'll turn the pages with enthusiasm to find the next puzzle piece of the Land's history and Beau's part in it, and they'll wish for their own private tutor in the strategy game of Fist.
Author Alysa Wishingrad weaves a timeless tale in which readers can smell Cressi's herbs, recoil from Himself of the Manor and discover truth along with Beau, and thrill to guess which characters mirror the pieces in Fist and how they will play their part in Beau's plans. The world building is exceptional, and the story and characters lend themselves well to a sequel. I'd love to read more in this world! Brava!
Middle grade readers will eagerly follow Beau and Cressi as they discover who they are and what they are truly capable of. They'll turn the pages with enthusiasm to find the next puzzle piece of the Land's history and Beau's part in it, and they'll wish for their own private tutor in the strategy game of Fist.
Author Alysa Wishingrad weaves a timeless tale in which readers can smell Cressi's herbs, recoil from Himself of the Manor and discover truth along with Beau, and thrill to guess which characters mirror the pieces in Fist and how they will play their part in Beau's plans. The world building is exceptional, and the story and characters lend themselves well to a sequel. I'd love to read more in this world! Brava!
July 21, 2021
I have decided, with this novel, that I love the trope of sheltered main character who suddenly has their eyes opened to how the world really works and begins to question everything they have been told. It's perfect for this age group because so many of these readers are going through that same experience, emerging from childhood and getting glimpses of adulthood. It's disorienting and scary but such a growth as they realize the person they want to become. Wishingrad captured all that perfectly in her debut. I loved how heroes might not deserve looking up to, and ones resources are untapped and waiting to be discovered. Beau was such a great character, and I liked his and Cressi's friendship even though it was such a whirlwind meet. I can see this book as a gateway to strategy games such as chess for kids like The Queen's Gambit was for adults :)
April 17, 2021
I was a huge fantasy reader as a child, especially a fan of Diana Wynne Jones. THE VERDIGRIS PAWN by Alysa Wishingrad brought me right back to that immersive reading experience. This middle grade fantasy has a timeless feel in terms of the elegant writing, strong characterization, and deep world-building. Combine that with the more contemporary issues, such as Himself, the despotic ruler, and Beau, the heir trying to make his own future, and the fierce girl main character, Cressi--and you get a new fantasy classic! I loved this book and highly recommend to readers looking for the next great fantasy, or timely political allegory.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the chance to read the eARC of this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the chance to read the eARC of this book.
December 17, 2020
I was very excited to get my hands on an advanced copy, and it was everything I had hoped it would be. I read it aloud with my twelve year old, and he adored the story. Wishingrad's characters, world and language are all beautifully cast, showcasing a tale that is both old in its texture and timeless in its message. The main character, Beau, evolves and grows throughout his journey, changing from naive and meek child to mature and worthy heir. A wonderful read for anyone who loves magic, secrets and a good shake-up in the kingdom!
July 15, 2021
An absolute must-read middle-grade fantasy. We started reading this book in our homeschool, but my son finished it before us. Oh, I love it so much too. This book has everything in it, secrets, intrigue, a kingdom ready for revolution, and plague. I highly recommend this book to every middle-grader who loves fantasy and adventure. We really hope there will be a sequel to this.
March 25, 2021
THE VERDIGRIS PAWN has it all: bravery, loyalty, betrayal, surprise, a battle to unseat tyranny, and a dash of magic. Thanks to Harper Collins for the ARC, and to the author for crafting such a beautifully written page-turner.
January 13, 2021
Heartfelt, hopeful, and charming, The Verdigris Pawn is a deftly crafted tale that weaves adventure with purpose, beautifully illustrating how kids can change the world.
March 28, 2023
Life's a game and the players you surround yourself with make all the difference. The Verdigris Pawn captivated me from the very first page. Beau discovers the truth about the Land right alongside the reader. Wishingrad layered so many subtle elements throughout this story: the importance of loyalty in friendship, the power of small acts to transform the world, and the thin line between right and wrong. There's a maturity to this book that I wasn't expecting, but I believe it will speak to the very best qualities within middle graders.
August 7, 2021
Being real, I wanted to read The Verdigris Pawn mainly because of the chess symbolism (which I found out is technically chess-like symbolism but whatever), and not only did I get that, but lots of other great stuff too.
This is the most "burn it all down", harshest critique of our current class system that I've ever seen in a middle grade (in metaphor, but the message is clear). It pulls ZERO punches. It has nuance but never, ever panders. It's able to recognize the fact that many children's truths are heavily influenced by the biases of their parents while at the same time making it clear that even so, it's not other people's job to babysit them through the learning process. Truly love to see it.
I definitely got the chance to go crazy over the chess-adjacent symbolism in a few specific places, but it's a consistent presence the entire time and it WORKS. It works so well. It enhances the story and allows for so much analysis, even past what's addressed within the book. As I said, that was my main expectation going in, and it was not disappointed.
Of course, last but not least, I have to talk about the characters. Beau is my SON (I think I have like 50 kids by now o well) and he kinda gives me Wylan vibes and anyway I'm very proud of his arc! Cressi is a mood 24/7 and a queen, and I really liked how Nate, despite not having POV chapters/not being a main character to the extent that the other two were, still got his own development. But by far the best thing were the relationships between the three of them because not ONE felt underutilized compared to the others, and the dynamics all felt distinct. You know the type of group they form before they even meet up together on the page.
Ignoring unavoidable interruptions, I think I read this at Orion Lost speed, which is kind of a touchstone for becoming one of my favorite books, so I can safely say The Verdigris Pawn has found its place there.
This is the most "burn it all down", harshest critique of our current class system that I've ever seen in a middle grade (in metaphor, but the message is clear). It pulls ZERO punches. It has nuance but never, ever panders. It's able to recognize the fact that many children's truths are heavily influenced by the biases of their parents while at the same time making it clear that even so, it's not other people's job to babysit them through the learning process. Truly love to see it.
I definitely got the chance to go crazy over the chess-adjacent symbolism in a few specific places, but it's a consistent presence the entire time and it WORKS. It works so well. It enhances the story and allows for so much analysis, even past what's addressed within the book. As I said, that was my main expectation going in, and it was not disappointed.
Of course, last but not least, I have to talk about the characters. Beau is my SON (I think I have like 50 kids by now o well) and he kinda gives me Wylan vibes and anyway I'm very proud of his arc! Cressi is a mood 24/7 and a queen, and I really liked how Nate, despite not having POV chapters/not being a main character to the extent that the other two were, still got his own development. But by far the best thing were the relationships between the three of them because not ONE felt underutilized compared to the others, and the dynamics all felt distinct. You know the type of group they form before they even meet up together on the page.
Ignoring unavoidable interruptions, I think I read this at Orion Lost speed, which is kind of a touchstone for becoming one of my favorite books, so I can safely say The Verdigris Pawn has found its place there.
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