Maria's Island

The absorbing story of the Cretan village of Plaka and the tiny, deserted island of Spinalonga – Greece's former leper colony – is told to us by Maria Petrakis, one of the children in the original version of The Island. She tells us of the ancient and misunderstood disease of leprosy, exploring the themes of stigma, shame and the treatment of those who are different, which are as relevant for children as adults. Gill Smith's rich, full-colour illustrations will transport the reader to the timeless and beautiful Greek landscape and Mediterranean seascape.

• A powerful and enchanting story which explores stigma and shame in an accessible and gentle way.
• The original adult version of The Island has sold over 5 million copies worldwide, including 1 million copies in the UK alone, and has been translated into 35 languages. It was the winner of Richard & Judy's Summer Read and the Sunday Times number one paperback for eight weeks. A sequel is being published in autumn 2020 by Headline Books.
• As an acclaimed novelist, and with her previous background in PR, Victoria is highly experienced in engaging with publicity and events. She is passionate about Greece, having explored, studied and written about the country for around 40 years, and has five adult books exploring different eras and aspects of Grecian life.

The tale is narrated by Maria, one of the children in Hislop’s novel The Island, from which this engrossing yarn is skillfully adapted for younger readers. The Daily Telegraph
I loved this book because it was so interesting to learn about the disease, but also to realise that if you are courageous like Maria even illness does not have to hold you back. Books Up North
Among the feelings of sorrow, separation and, at times desperation, there is happiness, hope and so much kindness. These are effortlessly woven into an absorbing, realistic and wonderful, wonderful story that must be shared. I adored this book. It is a real treasure. But please, have the box of tissues to hand. There will be tears, both of sadness and joy. Fallen Star Stories
I picked this book up as soon as it arrived and couldn’t put it down. My favourite things were the Greek setting and the history in the story, and I loved that the character was called Anna - best name ever! I didn’t know much about this story before I read it and enjoyed finding out about the adventures. I would recommend it to my friends. I liked the illustrations too. -- Anna, Age 11 Toppsta
This children's version is a real triumph! Such an original historical fiction set in Crete. The story and illustrations transport you to Greece. Such an in interesting and lovely story of hope and courage and prejudice. Great for any history or science lover. -- Parent Toppsta

Victoria Hislop worked in publishing, PR and as a journalist before becoming a novelist. Her adult fiction books include The Island, The Return and, most recently, Those Who Are Loved, all of which have been bestsellers. She divides her time between Kent and Greece, and this is her first book for children.

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