Content levels
Trigger warnings
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
A magical modern fairytale set in Kiev, featuring a girl called Masha who lives in a flying trolleybus called Icarus. When rich Uncle Igor sends her mother abroad to work, Masha stays in Kiev and moves into an old, disused trolleybus called Icarus. But one night there is a terrible storm and Icarus takes off! Masha is transported to an enchanted place where she discovers that, on midsummer eve, she will be able to wish for whatever her heart desires. But will Masha be able to find the enchanted place again and work out her heart's desire in time? And will she make the right wish to bring her mother back home so they can escape Igor's clutches for ever?
Is Riding Icarus appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
A heartwarming magical adventure about a girl separated from her mother who discovers an enchanted world. Deals with themes of economic hardship and family separation but maintains a hopeful, fairytale tone throughout.
What to know going in
This book has no graphic violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include abandonment and class struggle.
Who'll love this
Middle graders will love the magical flying trolleybus and the quest to find an enchanted place where Masha can make her heart's desire come true.