Duck (presumably white) is youngest member of a gang of street urchins known as the Crowns. When the gang moves to Odierne, Avilogne (akin to medieval France), the Crowns’ cruel but clever leader, Gnat, forges apprenticeship papers for Duck. As the baker’s apprentice, Duck will be able to pass bread and coin to her friends under the baker’s nose. But Gnat and Duck do not foresee the kindness of the baker, Griselde, or the way she takes to Duck as if Duck were her own daughter. Duck develops a conscience and finds herself torn. She feels compelled to provide for her old family, the Crowns, but terribly guilty about stealing from Griselde, who feeds, educates, and genuinely cares for her. Sensing this, Gnat and the rest of the Crowns grow resentful of Duck, accusing her of becoming an “inside cat” whose loyalty has shifted. Gnat decides to take matters into his own hands, making a deal with the leader of the Red Swords, a rival gang threatening the Crowns, that may prove disastrous for all involved. This unusually lengthy middle grade novel, replete with duplicitous tricks and delicious bread-making details, moves along at a steady clip. There are elements of mystery, and occasional chapters in the voice of a watchful gargoyle on the city’s unfinished, abandoned cathedral. Complex and likeable, Duck undergoes an immense amount of growth as she tries to balance the many relationships and responsibilities in her life. (Ages 9-13)