Fiction The Freedom of Birds

Stephanie Parkyn: Allen & Unwin, $33

The backdrop for this atmospheric book is the early 1800s, during the dying days of Napoleon’s disastrous rampage through Europe. Remi and Pascal are teenagers, abandoned by their families as children and brought up in ComedieItalienne theatre. When they are abruptly removed from its protection, they become travelling storytellers, earning what they can through the small towns and villages they encounter. Two become three when circus-trained Saskia joins them, terrified and running from her captor. Surrounded by war, the three journey from one place of terrible danger to another, learning about the deep bonds of friendship, community and love.

CORINNA HENTE