Nominated for the ARK Children’s Book Prize

“I’ve always been angry. For as long as I can remember. Rage is simply a crown that is put upon me. I have no choice, the crown is suddenly lowered over my head, it tightens around my forehead and sends furious lightning and thunder through my brain and out to my legs and arms and hands. My fists clench, my arms rise, and then I strike. As hard as I can.”

For as long as she can remember, Isabella has been on the move with her mother—always chasing the next adventure, never staying in one place for long. Life is full of excitement, but something deep within her never feels quite right.
Then, in a village deep in the forest, their journey comes to a halt. For the first time, Isabella finds friendship. A sense of belonging. Maybe even a home.
The villagers are preparing for the Festival of the Dead. And in the heart of the forest stands a strange, ancient oak tree. Someone is waiting for Isabella there—perhaps with the answers she’s been searching for.

The Thunder Queen is a powerful story about rage, truth, and the courage to make a choice that could change everything.