The Swan-Bone Flute

<p><strong>Historical fantasy - with a difference! </strong></p><p>Earth lovers climate activists environment protectors - use this novel and its <strong>Questions for Book Clubs or for Groups</strong> to vision a sustainable future together. The characters in Wellstowe and Peony Valley live in harmony with nature - until the rule of the fist crashes into their peaceful lives with arrows and groping hands. They resist; as they protect each other and reclaim their inclusive democracy we see how we can re-create our lives and society.</p><p><br></p><p><strong><em>'You can choose tales that keep your nose in the dirt - or look around for talk that lifts you. Then it's up to you...'</em></strong></p><p> </p><p>In 598 CE/AD Anglo-Saxon invaders have colonised the edge of the fens in uneasy peace with their neighbours the Britons. The settlers enslaved some of these Celtic people.</p><p> </p><p>When <strong>Ursel</strong> jumps down from an oak to save a mother deer from the hunt her uncle beats her but cannot silence her.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Hilda the storyteller</strong> strides into their settlement her pack full of myths of the peaceful queens and shamans of Peony Valley. She fills her listeners with dreams of honey and blood - and longing for justice.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Slave-girl Meg</strong> yearns to be a storyteller like Hilda - but dare she? What do headmen do to women who stand tall?</p><p><br></p><p>Her mother <strong>Seren the Healer</strong> longs to use her spells - but has to sweep and gut fish for her owner.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Oswynne headman's wife</strong> is torn between loyalty to him and the nourishing company of women. Is Seren's magic mist dangerous?</p><p><br></p><p>When they grow from fear to friendship they have a chance to stop Thane Roger grabbing <em>'whatever and whoever he wants.' </em>Will he take over their inclusive moot or can the women work together?</p><p><br></p><p>Where can we start? The <strong>self-help elements</strong> of <em>The Swan-Bone Flute </em>include information about listening partnerships; the characters discover how healing this simple technique can be. They base their cooperation on friendships strengthened this way.</p><p><br></p><p>Hilda's stories bring shamanic wisdom which sustains and guides her listeners through challenges. They learn to direct their anger and use its power to confront wrongs.</p><p><br></p><p>If you like <em>Juliet Marillier Mary Renault Philip Pullman</em> enjoy this book as a gripping read.</p>