The Ransom of Dond - Tapa dura

"Embraces the magic of myths, with animal transformations and transporting dreams. Movingly, it is above all about the power of a mother's love and how much anyone facing death would want to live" (Nicolette Jones Sunday Times)

"This new title, in its elegance, wisdom and lyricism, provides a poignant coda to Siobhan Dowd's earlier achievements" (Robert Dunbar The Irish Times)

"A beautiful, mystical fable for our time . . . The Ransom of Dond is a book to be read aloud or alone. It provides a marvellous opportunity for storytelling and discussion" (Clare Morpurgo The School Librarian)

"One of the most attractively produced works of junior fiction" (Robert Dunbar The Irish Times)

"A riveting story . . . Raises questions about religion and highlights the dangers of ignorance. But equally, it is a tale of love and family, and their ability to conquer all . . . As a physical thing, it is a beautiful book. From the dustcover to the endpapers, it is a joy to hold" (Children's Books Ireland - Inis magazine)

Siobhan Dowd gave us four extraordinary novels before she died in 2007. This is her last story, a final gift to those who know and love her work, and a glittering invitation to those who have yet to discover it.

Siobhan draws us irresistibly into Darra’s tiny emerald island world, lashed by white-tipped waves, at the mercy of the dark god, Dond. Only the truth and a mother’s kiss can set them free.

This is a tale to be treasured, a haunting tale of love and fate and truth. Pam Smy’s beautiful two-colour drawings announce her as a leading children's illustrator and the astonishing blend of words and pictures takes us all into that timeless world of story.

The Ransom of Dond comes to us like a gift from the past.