Wrapped By Jennifer Bradbury
Here is Jennifer Bradbury’s behind the scenes look on writing this wonderful book:
“I wrote Wrapped while waiting for my editorial letter for Shift to come as a way to keep myself busy and distracted. I wrote it first because I was fascinated with the notion of mummy unwrapping parties, but soon found myself blending in my devotion to all things Jane Austen, Indiana Jones, and Alias. Along the way, the historical context emerged, and the bits I could lift from the Napoleonic wars and the time period were unbelievably perfect. Its an admittedly unholy combination, but I love the story and the characters, and can’t wait to share Agnes with the world. Atheneum will also publish a sequel to Wrapped eventually. I haven’t settled on a title yet, but I’ve turned in the first draft and am trying to persuade my husband that we need to travel to Egypt to do research.”
Here is Amber’s Review:
Agnes lives in London. In her time, Napoleon has returned for a second time and is threatening all of Europe with his war machine. On principle, the normal social scene of London marches on, with Agnes in tow. This is her year to make her debut and make a smart match, the year when she trades her dreams of adventure, her studies and cleverness for the small world of marriage, children and societal expectations.
Lord Showalter’s is the first party Agnes will attend during her debut season, and during the party an Egyptian mummy is unwrapped. Agnes believes this will be as close as she will ever come to her dreams of travel and adventure, until one small act - her filching of a small dog statue - has her destiny taking an unexpected left turn into parts unknown.
I absolutely loved this book. It deals with London at a time when Egyptian mummies were looked on as curiosities instead of great cultural artifacts. Then spies, intrigue and two kids who are trying to make their own place in the world. You get a fast paced and fun look into 1815 London and how war affected them. Plus Agnes is clever and resourceful, never simpering or filled with teen angst — which makes her a great heroine.
It is set in history versus trying to teach it, which is another great thing about it. I would recommend this book for any girl (there is a strong male lead in it as well, but the story is told exclusively from Agnes’s point of view, sorry guys) from ages 10 - 15. 11 AR points.
-Seattle Mystery Bookshop
(Source: jennifer-bradbury.com)
