I have trouble telling whether this story is based in fact or fiction, but I found it highly engaging. The story continues the story of the two characters from the previous book while mixing in some European historical context by expanding the setting of the previous book. You get a glimpse of Russian oppression and how people fought against it. It's good cause for discussion among readers. It's also an entertaining story with heroism and daring driving everything forward. Good read. ( )

This book is an interesting read-aloud for any age students. The Great Bellini teaches young Mirette to walk the high wire. Mirette uses her talent to free him from prison, and both resolve to help others become free.

http://www.breakfastserials.com/1PRODUCT_5Illustrators_Detail.asp?IllustratorID=...
This website is a biography about the author, Emily McCully. ( )