Vesper Holly drags Brinnie, her guardian, through a series of dangerous Northern African cities, trying to return a long-overdue library book. They escape kidnap, being sold as slaves and liberate a city.

I remember Vesper as a supremely feisty red-head from my childhood, but it turns out she is an intelligent and daring brunette. Ah, well. The adventures are set in the late 1800s and play off historical events but happen in fictional places. I’m not sure I care for having the tales narrated through stodgy Brinnie’s eyes, he reminds me of a not-trying-to-be-so-funny (thankfully) C-3PO. I’ve adored Lloyd Alexander and will devour the rest of these I’m sure. Saving the Taran books for when I can really enjoy them! ( )