Discover a captivating journey in 'Xanthe & the Ruby Crown', a heartwarming children's novel by Costa Award-winning author Jasbinder Bilan. This enchanting story follows young Xanthe as she navigates the emotional terrain of family secrets and identity, all while visiting her grandmother, Nani, in her cozy tower-block flat adorned with a lush rooftop garden. With 240 pages of beautifully crafted prose, this book immerses readers in themes of love, belonging, and resilience.

When Nani is diagnosed with dementia, Xanthe embarks on a quest to unearth her grandmother's past, driven by a love that transcends time. Guided by a mysterious cat, she stumbles upon hidden mementoes that unveil a poignant story of loss, love, and the journey of a refugee girl who long ago was forced to leave behind everything she cherished.

This powerful tale not only showcases the magical realism that Jasbinder Bilan is known for but also provides young readers with a profound understanding of family history amid the backdrop of urban life in Nottingham. With its compelling narrative and relatable characters, 'Xanthe & the Ruby Crown' is a must-have addition to your child's bookshelf, promoting empathy and understanding for different experiences. Perfect for ages 8-12, this book is ideal for both personal enjoyment and educational purposes.

Order now for fast delivery within New Zealand! Book condition is brand new and published by Chicken House Ltd, ensuring an excellent reading experience for your little ones.

Condition: Brand New
ISBN: 9781913322601
Number of Pages 240
By Bilan, Jasbinder
Publisher Chicken House Ltd


A stunning new children's novel from the Costa Award-winning author of Asha & the Spirit Bird. Xanthe loves visiting her grandmother in her tower-block flat with its lush rooftop garden. When Nani is diagnosed with dementia, Xanthe is determined to help her remember who she is an...d her family history. A mysterious cat leads Xanthe to some unexpected answers; secret mementoes from Nani's past which reveal her as a girl who, long ago, was forced to leave everything she loved behind ... The fourth novel by bestselling, Costa Award-winning author Jasbinder Bilan; author of Asha & the Spirit Bird, Tamarind & the Star of Ishta and Aarti & the Blue Gods Follows archaeology-obsessed Xanthe as she uncovers her family's secrets A tale of secrets, family, refugees, belonging and love Set in a tower block in Nottingham, bringing Jasbinder's trademark magical realism to an urban, everyday settingRead less