A Thief Among Statues

Margaret Bunel Edwards writes novels for young adults. She is the author
of Little Stitch and The Ocean Between.

An orphan, Brian Newgate, is sent to Canada from England to work for his
living. Falsely accused of stealing by two farmers, he runs away to a
small town. Hiding in a church, he is awakened by voices, but whose are
they? When he removes the boards surrounding two pillars, he discovers
wooden statues of two of the Magi. They send him into the town to find
the other statues that make up the Nativity scene.

Brian’s adventures lead him into danger and also help him to
understand himself. The author has an unusual way of speaking directly
to the reader, asking him or her what may happen next. Does Brian leave
in the morning? Does he clear his name? Is he the boy in the tableau
whose spirit has been captured in wood? This is a story that involves
readers, making them consider different endings and possibilities.

The illustrations are wood engravings that show meticulous detail. A
clear, precise explanation of how the artist reproduced the pictures is
included at the back of the book. This wonderful story constantly
challenges the young reader’s mind. Highly recommended.