Jepp, Who Defied the Stars

Jepp, Who Defied the Stars is a compelling historical fiction novel set in 16th-century Renaissance Europe. It follows Jepp, a young dwarf, who is forced into a humiliating life as a court dwarf in a Spanish palace. Alongside his friend Lia, he endures this existence until an escape attempt propels him into a new adventure with an eccentric master dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of the cosmos. This 400-page chapter book explores themes of identity, perseverance, friendship, and the pursuit of knowledge against societal constraints, making it suitable for independent readers aged 9-11 and advanced readers as young as 8.