Book Launch: 'The Republic of Birds' by Jessica Miller

Jessica Miller is a children’s writer and PhD student from Brisbane, currently living in Germany. She has written for a variety of publications including Kill Your Darlings and Stilts. Her first novel, 'Elizabeth and Zenobia', was shortlisted for the Text Prize, the Readings Prize and was a CBCA Notable Book.

About 'The Republic of Birds':

Olga loves the stories of the old cartographers and pores over their ancient books and maps, trying to unlock their secrets. Sometimes, she thinks she can even feel through the maps— almost see into them—as if by magic.

But magic is banned in Tsaretsvo, ever since the war with the birds that divided the kingdom, and the powerful magic-wielding Iagas have long been banished. Now, any young girl who shows signs of being an Iaga is whisked away to Bleak Steppe—to a life, so the story goes, of unspeakable punishment.

When the bird army kidnaps Olga’s sister in a surprise attack on the human kingdom, Olga realises she has to venture into the Republic of Birds to bring her back. But first, she must learn to unlock her magical ability. As her journey takes her into the hidden world of the Iagas and the wilds of the Unmappable Blank, Olga discovers the truth about the war with the birds—and learns just how much is at stake.

Inspired by Russian folklore, 'The Republic of Birds' is a rich middle-grade fantasy adventure for readers of Karen Foxlee, Jessica Townsend and Philip Pullman.

Jessica will be back in Australia (she is currently resident in Germany) to celebrate the publication of her second novel.

Her novel will be launched by legendary local writer Nova Weetman at 6:30pm.

Join us for the festivities, drinks provided.