‘Crimson’ a popular kids’ read
“Crimson” by Arthur Slade is currently one of Lethbridge Public Library’s most popular Children’s eBooks. Suitable for those aged 10+, this read is highly recommended by library customer, 12-year-old Cassie, as well.
Cassie writes: “[Crimson is] one of my absolute favourites. It is fast-paced, intense, and I could not put it down. Not one part did I find boring or uninteresting in the book, and I have recommended it to many of my friends who are looking for books to read. My favourite character is Fen, the main character in the book. She does not easily show weakness, and all she wants to do is help her sister. She is also very intelligent, and is quick to understand her magic.”
I agree wholeheartedly with Cassie. “Crimson” is a story about ruthless Queen Servilia who has ruled the world of Illium for over a thousand years, and one strong, brave girl, Fen, who has impossible choices to make as she tries to save her sister from the queen’s brutal hand. Over the years, Queen Servilia has used magical red dust mined from the earth to gain absolute power over all the people who live in Illium.
The novel opens in Village Twenty-One where wild magic is growing. Fen, the 11year-old protagonist, whose hand has been cut off as punishment for theft, wakes up one morning to discover her hair has gone crimson: a sign that she has been given magical powers of her own. Fen immediately tries to hide her new crimson-coloured hair, as it only reveals itself to those who have magical powers, something the queen does not tolerate and means certain death for Fen.
Fen’s magic is also different from the Queen’s, and since Servilia has no control over it, she’s decreed the very existence of wild magics as illegal. Fen’s beloved mother immediately hands over the family’s meagre supplies so Fen can flee Village TwentyOne.
Things go from bad to worse, in large part due to the Queen’s omniscience, as she has the power to enter the minds of her citizens. Soon Fen is fighting for her life, while her sister is kidnapped and taken to the capital city. Rescuing her becomes Fen’s driving motivation. She discovers her wild magic slowly and uses it when in danger as she tries to save her sister from evil Queen Servilia.
Fen is a wonderful and vibrant hero. She’s relatable in her imperfections, and despite the many hardships and horrors she encounters, Fen manages to keep her sense of humour — a trait that keeps her strong throughout the story.
Be sure to check out “Crimson” by Arthur Slade in our online collection accessible on our website at lethlib.ca, and check out Lethbridge Public Library’s social media and website for even more reading suggestions and our digital program options. You can even sign up for a library card online! We’re working hard and are committed to serving our community with ongoing library programming.