Fletcher, Susan. Falcon in the Glass.

Fletcher, Susan.  Falcon in the Glass.  Simon & Schuster/McElderry Books      2013  302p  ISBN 978-1-4424-7710-0  ms/jr  uncorrected proof VG-BN Historical fiction

Young, fatherless Renzo dreams of being a famous glassmaker, but without a patron, he must work doing menial labor in a glassworks on the island of Murano around the turn of the 15th century.  He uses what little time he has to himself to make works of art in glass, especially falcons, and this comes to the attention of the owner of the glassworks.  This very well written book makes an intriguing story about the island of Murano and its history of glassmaking.  Together, the boy who would be a great glassmaker, his family, his co-workers, and the glass itself create a story that is part historical fiction and part fantasy.  All of it makes for a great, story-driven read.        This is a highly recommended addition for all middle-school and public-library collection.  Girls and boys alike will enjoy this book -- there is something for everyone.

Summary: Young, fatherless Renzo dreams of being a famous glassmaker, but without a patron, he must do menial labor in a glassworks on the island of Murano around the turn of the 15th century.  He uses the little bit of time he has to make works of art in glass, especially falcons, and this comes to the attention of the owner of the glassworks.       

Glassmaking-Fifteenth century-Fiction                             --Lynn Fisher