The Medici Seal. Theresa Breslin

Matteo, a 11 year old boy starts this book as the witness to a murder and his lucky escape from the murderer sets up the complex story of warring Sixteenth Century Italian city states. The author knows her early Italian history and this drives the story of adventure, treasure and above all, the bonds that form and hold family & friends. Leonardo da Vinci's presence and the master - pupil relationship they form while important to the story never takes over from the fact that this is Mattteo's story. Easy to read and fine for young adults, the story is complex enough to hold the attention and entertain adults as well.