An alchemist peddles a new magical invention?and the key that could unlock Lettie Peppercorn's family secrets?in this quirky ?tale of self-discovery, family, and friendship? (The Independent).

Lettie Peppercorn cannot go outside. Ma told her so right before Ma disappeared forever. So Lettie's house is on stilts, and she is stuck with only the wind and a pigeon for a friend. Nothing exciting has ever happened to her?until the night a strange merchant appears.

He claims to be an alchemist?the greatest that ever lived?and he is here to sell Lettie his newest invention. It's an invention that could change Lettie's life?and the world forever. An invention called ?snow.?

But snow is not the only secret he holds. The alchemist knows where Lettie's Ma is. And Lettie will do anything to get Ma back?even if it means risking her own life.

Join the brilliant and resourceful Lettie Peppercorn as she sails across the world to reunite her family and discover the truth about herself.

Sam Gayton grew up in Kent with a cat called Archibald, a dog called Ruby, a bunch of humans, and a ghost called Kevin. He spent his days playing with Lego, and making comics with his friend Loo Loo. Nowadays, Sam still loves Lego and comics. But he also loves drinking tea (milk, no sugar), eating pizza (pepperoni, extra cheese), and wondering how long he would survive a zombie apocalypse (probably about fourteen minutes).