Alphabet of Dreams by Susan Fletcher:
Book Review

Dread Locks Alphabet of Dreams by Susan Fletcher

Fourteen-year old Mitra and her little brother Babak are members of an exiled Persian royal family. Living on the streets, they are forced to steal to survive, until Mitra discovers Babak's mysterious power. If Babak sleeps with someone's article of clothing, he will have a dream about that person, which will sometimes predict the individual's future. Mitra recognizes this gift as profitable and begins selling Babak's dreams. Soon however, the operation backfires and Mitra and Babak become slaves to the Magus Melchior, who uses Babak to dream about a newborn king. Soon, they are undertaking a long journey to the far-away land of Bethlehem, to see this new king that will change the world.

This is a highly original take on the story of the Three Wise Men, as well as an entertaining book in its own right. Master storyteller Susan Fletcher spins the tale with vivid detail and imagery. One thing I enjoyed about this book was the genuineness and imperfection of the characters, especially Mitra. Passionate and feisty, she is also selfish and prideful, a welcome relief to the almost-perfect protagonist of many novels. "Alphabet of Dreams" is a great read for the Christmas season and for any time of year.

Reviewed by 16 year-old girl reviewer