The Puppets of Spelhorst

The Puppets of Spelhorst is a whimsical and poignant novella about five inanimate objects—a king, a wolf, a girl, a boy, and an owl—who are trapped in a trunk by a mysterious and quiet old sea captain. In their dark confines, the puppets engage in conversations that reveal their individual dreams, longings, and fears. Each puppet yearns for freedom, purpose, and light, yet they are bound together by fate, forming a deep, unspoken connection that transcends their individual stories. As they wait for their eventual destiny, they share a sense of belonging to a larger tale, one that they can't yet comprehend.

The story takes a turn when their fate is realized and the puppets find themselves placed on a mantel in a blue room, owned by two little girls. There, they discover that their journey and purpose are far more astonishing than they could have imagined.

The novella weaves themes of friendship, identity, and destiny, framed with the charm and wisdom of a beloved author known for her heartwarming tales. It is a beautifully crafted narrative meant to be read aloud, ideal for sharing and reflecting upon the complexities of life. The Puppets of Spelhorst offers comfort, insight, and inspiration, guiding readers through the metaphorical "dark forest" they may encounter on their own journeys.

Illustrated in black and white by a different artist for each book in the projected trio, The Puppets of Spelhorst is part of the Norendy Tales, a collection that blends magical realism, philosophical musings, and gentle humor.