Falcon In The Glass

Falcon In The Glass by Susan Fletcher, 300 pages

Since his father was killed Renzo has only been able to work as a drudge in another master’s glassworks, instead of being an apprentice in his father’s shop.  However, he does have a chance to prove himself and gain status as an apprentice, if he can only get in enough practice.  Meanwhile, a group og young children, who all seem to have bird companions, have come to town.  They have been earning some money doing tricks and shows, but some people are concerned that they are witches.  Renzo meets Letta, one of the girls, one night in the shop when he is practicing and the whole group of children end up there every night, keeping warm, while Letta assists Renzo, even helping him create birds from the glass, a brand new skill.  The arrangement works well, but Renzo worries what will happen if they are caught, especially with the rumors of witchcraft.  Set in Murano, near Venice, during the Renaissance, the book has captured a lot of historical detail.  However, the book is more of an adventure with just a hint of fantasy thrown in and it will appeal more to kids who like those books than those who like history, I think.