Lamplighter

D. M. Cornish's 'Lamplighter' is the formidable second volume in 'The Foundling's Tale,' a true epic fantasy for the middle-grade and early young adult audience. At 736 pages, this is a significant commitment, but one that rewards readers with deep world-building and a compelling character arc. The story picks up with Rossam?nd Bookchild, now a lamplighter, tasked with protecting travelers from the terrifying 'bogles' that inhabit the wild Half-Continent. Rossam?nd's initial meekness and sense of not belonging are central to his journey, as he navigates new friendships, rivalries with a young monster hunter, and the ever-present danger of his world. The book handles sensitive topics like fear, identity, and belonging through the lens of a fantastical quest. The emotional arc is one of gradual empowerment, as Rossam?nd moves from feeling like an outsider to embracing a destiny he couldn't have foreseen. This book is specifically for the advanced reader, likely ages 9-14, who craves immersive, intricate fantasy worlds and long, character-driven narratives. A parent might reach for this when their child has exhausted other popular fantasy series and is ready for something more substantial and complex, or when a child is grappling with feelings of inadequacy or finding their place. Parents should be prepared for some descriptions of 'ferocious bogles' and perilous situations, which might be intense for very sensitive or younger readers, but are generally appropriate for the target age group. The sheer length means it's a long-term reading project, not a quick read. Its unique blend of detailed world-building, a relatable protagonist's journey of self-discovery, and a sense of looming destiny sets it apart from many shorter, more episodic fantasy offerings.