A land of forbidden magic. A book of ancient maps. And a story of courage and sisterly love.

Magic is banned in Stolitsa. Any girl showing signs of being magical is whisked away to Bleak Steppe—to a life, so the stories go, of unspeakable horror.

So when strange things begin to happen to Olga, she knows she has a dangerous secret, one she must guard with great care.

But then the birds take the thing most precious to her, and Olga knows she must summon all her courage to go into the Republic of Birds to get it back.

It’s an impossible task—unless she can find a way to unlock her hidden magic.

Jessica Miller is a children’s writer and PhD student from Brisbane, currently living in Germany. She has written for a variety of publications including Kill Your Darlings and Stilts. Her first novel, Elizabeth and Zenobia, was shortlisted for the Text Prize, the Readings Prize and was a CBCA Notable Book.

‘I loved this spicy fantasy with its unusual Russian influences and its clever, cartographer heroine.’ Isobelle Carmody

'This book has so many things I love: maps, strange magic, living folklore, talking animals, history books, impossible challenges and a redoubtable heroine who mistakenly regards herself as untalented and unlovely, when she is quite the opposite. I couldn’t have enjoyed reading this more, it’s an absolute joy. Make a note for March next year: read The Republic of Birds.’ Leanne Hall

'Oh my goodness, I would have gobbled this up as a kid. The story is just brilliant...I was completely in love from start to finish. What a feast! The world and its moving magical parts was simply wonderful. I loved everything. EVERYTHING.’ Karen Foxlee

‘I loved this strange, magical and captivating story.’ Carly Nugent