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Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Plague Thieves by Caroline Fernandez takes young readers into a gripping tale of survival set in the late 1600s during London's notorious plague outbreak. The story is narrated through the perspective of twelve-year-old Rose, who begins by describing her once-simple life working in her family’s spice shop—a place filled with the alluring aromas of eucalyptus, nutmeg, and ginger. Readers can practically feel the comfort and warmth of Rose's world, marked by daily routines and close family bonds. However, when the plague begins to spread, life changes in unimaginable ways, and Rose’s life is thrown into turmoil. It's a historical adventure where Rose and her brother, Lem, must navigate the overcrowded streets of London, a city caught in the grip of fear, sickness, and desperation.
Caroline Fernandez’s attention to historical detail vividly portrays 17th-century London, from the modest meals Rose shares with her family to the bustling marketplace and the underlying dangers that lurk in their community. Young readers will gain an appreciation of the era's harsh realities as the mysterious nature of the plague heightens the suspense. Through Rose’s observations, readers also witness the strain on her family, particularly with her brother Lem, whose rebellious behavior contrasts with Rose’s responsibility and love for the family business. The charm of Plague Thieves lies in its balance of education and intrigue. Fernandez not only builds suspense around the plague but also invites readers to explore the history and use of spices—a touch that is as informative as it is enchanting. Rose is the heroine who is relatable and resilient. Fernandez does a great job of portraying Rose's ingenuity and determination, while the historical setting is enriched by her dying father's mysterious medicinal oil, a blend he believed could ward off the plague. Fernandez does well in transitioning the narrative to a heightened adventure as this "cure" soon attracts unwanted attention, transforming Rose from a young girl struggling to survive into a target for those who will stop at nothing to secure the oil’s secrets. This gripping tale is both a testament to human resilience and a journey of survival and sacrifice.
