For Elspeth Pule, the real world is dull and lonely, and she misses her friends Humpty Dumpty, Bo Peep, and Rodney, a giant talking wheel of cheese. So when she receives a request go back to a land where storybook characters are real, she immediately jumps at the chance. But upon her arrival, Elspeth learns that a horrible witch named Mary Mary Quite Contrary has kidnapped King William the Umpteenth's wife and taken her into a dark forest. To free her, Elspeth and her ragtag crew will have to pay the witch's ransom . . . or else. Can Elspeth use her bravery, smarts, and just a little bit of ill temper to thwart the evil witch and rescue her friend? With a hilarious irreverent voice, this rambunctious tale is perfect for fans of Lemony Snicket and Pseudonymous Bosch.

Author Biography

Gerry Swallow is the author of Blue in the Face and its sequel Long Live the Queen, along with, A Whole Nother Story--which received a starred review from Kirkus Reviews and was an Al Roker Today Show pick--and its sequels Another Whole Nother Story and No Other Story, all written under the pseudonym Dr. Cuthbert Soup. He began his career as a stand-up comic, making numerous appearances on NBC's Tonight Show. He then turned his attention to writing movies, including the blockbuster hit, Ice Age: The Meltdown. He lives in Victoria, Canada. www.awholenotherbook.com Valerio Fabbretti is the author and illustrator of children's books and comic books in both the USA and Italy. He was born in Rome and currently lives in San Francisco. www.valeriofabbretti.com