The 11-year-old orphan Rosa experiences magic and brings the streets of Venice to life.
Rosa’s parents died in an accident, and an odd couple takes her care – her aunt and uncle. Threatened harshly by locking her in the bedroom at night, Rosa turns inward, finding comfort only in her fairytales – and the mysterious black cat Balthazar. Terrifying, Rosa moves from home to accompany her relatives to Venice, who secured a business deal for their artificial grass venture, which eventually turns into bad luck. Lonely, afraid, Rosa discovers her own power – the ability to stop time, the joy of numerous cats and a friendly family at Hotel Mancini.
“Rosa by Starlight” explores the themes of the consequences of living without parents, loneliness and relocating to a foreign country. The protagonist experiences emotional depth and growth due to solving problems, sometimes with the dust of magic and the joy of becoming part of the Mancini. The story will intrigue the readers with its vivid Venetian descriptions that slow the pace, and the introduction of some Italian phrases that sound like ‘fireworks’ and ‘dropping pennies’.
The story’s strength is the Venetian sceneries that Hilary McKay experienced first-hand, which shape the mood in predominantly blue but evoke thoughts of modern-day Venice landscapes. The beautifully crafted setting, enhanced by Robinson’s charcoal and graffiti illustrations with playful use of light and shadow, brings an authentic and cinematic feel.
“Rosa by Starlight” is not a ‘rosy’ read, but creates a vivid Venetian atmosphere that questions family love and the sense of belonging. Growing with compassion, the story offers hope that love can be found in the most unexpected places and heal.
Further Information:
If you loved Rosa by Starlight, check out more information about its author and illustrator:
The Stats:
- Title: Rosa by Starlight
- Author and Illustrator: Hilary McKay & Keith Robinson
- ISBN: 978-1-5290-7451-2
- Publication Date: 2024
- Page Count: 240
- Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
- Recommended age: 9-12
- Categories/Topic: orphan, Venice, magic, cats
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