Maria Petrakis is one of the children who featured in Victoria Hislop's bestselling novel 'The Island'. 

In this retelling, Victoria introduces young readers to the misunderstood disease of leprosy through the story of Maria and her family. She gently but powerfully explores the themes of stigma and shame and the treatment of those who are different.

The tone is perfect. It's a gripping story which sensitively presents tragedy and hope, ostracism and solidarity. 

The full-colour illustrations are stunning and mesmerising, conveying all the beauty of the Greek landscape and the Mediterranean climate and wonderfully capturing the characters from the story. It's a beautiful book and something to treasure.