How to Save a Queendom

Twelve-year-old Stub, an orphan mistreated by her guardian Matron Tratte, leads a lonely life with her only friend, a pet chicken named Peck. Her mundane existence takes a dramatic turn when she discovers a tiny wizard, Orlen, in her pocket. Orlen, the royal wizard to Queen Sonora of Maradon, has been magically bound to Stub due to a spell gone awry. Tasked with returning Orlen to the capital before the centennial Peace Day, Stub embarks on a perilous journey. Alongside Beaman Cork, an apprentice chef with a passion for cooking, Stub faces enchanted creatures and treacherous landscapes, uncovering secrets that threaten the queendom's delicate peace. ​

Recommendation: This whimsical fantasy adventure is recommended for middle-grade readers who enjoy tales of courage, friendship, and self-discovery. Stub's journey from a downtrodden orphan to a brave heroine offers an inspiring narrative that emphasizes resilience and the importance of found family.​

Ideal for:

• Children aged 8–12​
• Fans of fantasy quests and magical adventures
• Readers who appreciate stories about overcoming adversity and forming unexpected friendships​

Similar Reads:

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill​
• Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend​
• The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer​

Stylistic Features:

• Third-person narrative with a blend of humor and heartfelt moments​
• Rich world-building with imaginative landscapes and creatures​
• Engaging dialogue that brings characters to life​

Content Warnings: The story includes themes of child neglect and mistreatment, depicted in a manner appropriate for the target age group. There are scenes of mild peril and fantasy violence, consistent with the adventure genre.