The Boy from Ilysies (Libyrinth) - Hardcover

Praise for "Libyrinth" " An interesting twist on the themes of societal opposition and integration, and perhaps an intriguing companion to ray Bradbury's "Fahrenheit 451."" "--Booklist "" The novel combines many science-fiction tropes--the quest, dystopian governments, degenerated society--into a clever, original story. The dramatic, satisfying climax and deftly handled resolution of the many plot threads will convince and exhilarate readers. A book-lover's delight." "--Kirkus Reviews "" "Libyrinth "isn't timid or polite. There is pain, there is death, there is consequence, and there is reality. But there is also joy, great adventure, and grace. It's a strangely timely novel that will leave young (and not so young) readers wondering about their iPods and books. This is good YA." --Nnedi Okorafor, author of "The Shadow Speaker"

On a world light-years away, Earth is long forgotten, except for the knowledge protected in the vast libyrinth. But that knowledge was threatened by the Singers, who for generations beyond remembering have relied on oral storytelling. They sought to destroy the books in the libyrinth, which they thought would - if read - kill the words they sing, and the knowledge in their songs. Now a Song has created peace between the Singers and the Libyrarians who work in the libyrinth. However, the libyrinth is quickly running out of food, and the survival of the ancient edifice and those who serve it may depend on Po, a young Ilysian who has had trouble adjusting to life at the libyrinth. Caught between his longings for acceptance and the Machiavellian tactics of his queen, Po is tricked into a crime that causes him to be cast out. He may return only if he retrieves a legendary artefact that may be the answer to all of the libyrinth's problems...or could turn the world into a barren, lifeless ruin. For Po, life has finally become exciting...but the cost may be his life, and the lives of those he loves.