A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking
by T. Kingfisher
Why read it
This book is a wonderfully quirky, delightfully dark fantasy that flips classic 'chosen one' tropes on their head. Instead of wielding destructive spells, the teenage protagonist can only manipulate bread and yeast, making her struggle to save her city both highly creative and uniquely grounded. It's a marvelous mix of baking whimsy, genuine tension, and heartfelt character growth.
Where to get it
In the Netherlands, you can find the English edition at international bookshops like Waterstones Amsterdam, Athenaeum Boekhandel, or Donner, and order it online via Bol.com or Amazon.nl. A Dutch translation, 'Gids voor defensief bakken', is also widely available. For digital formats, check Kobo, Storytel, or BookBeat for ebooks and audiobooks, or search the digital catalog of de Bibliotheek.
What to expect
Expect a fast-paced story with a Pratchett-esque wit that seamlessly shifts from cozy bakery vibes to a tense struggle for survival. The tone is humorous but surprisingly dark, featuring high stakes, corrupt authorities, and some mild, creative horror elements (such as a carnivorous sourdough starter). It is highly accessible and readable, perfect for both young adults and older fantasy fans looking for something refreshingly original.
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