City of Masks

A parent would reach for this book when their child is navigating a serious medical diagnosis or feeling physically limited by their own body. It is a powerful choice for children who need to reclaim a sense of agency and strength through imagination. The story follows Lucien, a boy undergoing treatment for cancer, who discovers he can 'stravagate' or travel through time and space to Bellezza, a magical version of Renaissance Venice. As Lucien navigates political intrigue and a blooming friendship with a girl named Arianna, the book explores themes of resilience, bravery, and the healing power of escapism. While it touches on the heavy reality of illness, the focus remains on Lucien's growth and his role as a hero in a vibrant, high-stakes world. It is ideally suited for middle grade readers and early teens who enjoy rich world-building and complex, multi-layered narratives.