TFK Kid Reporter Asha Curley read A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes and interviewed its authors, Jake Halpern and Peter Kujawinski. Read Asha’s thoughts below.
In a world struggling with a deadly plague, Nia’s most powerful weapon is not a sword nor a spell. It’s her nose! A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is a riveting story detailing the struggles Nia faces because of her superpower: a heightened sense of smell. At first, she hides this gift. Then she must use it to combat a new plague and save humanity.
This novel teaches readers that we should all celebrate our uniqueness. Coauthor Jake Halpern told TIME for Kids that the book is about Nia’s “willingness to stand out and be different and risk all of the hate or trouble that may bring.”
The book weaves various senses, such as smell, taste, and hearing, into its story. Readers will feel engrossed by its magical world, which is full of delightful characters navigating unexpected challenges. “I really love these characters, and I love this story,” coauthor Peter Kujawinski told TIME for Kids. A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes will have readers reflecting on identity, strength, friendship, and the lengths a person might go to help someone in need.







