London, 1666. In the shadow of St Paul’s Cathedral, a young girl must fight to protect everything she holds dear.

The White Phoenix follows thirteen-year-old Lizzie Hopper as she and her mother take over their family bookshop after a sudden loss. But this is a city on edge—war, suspicion and whispers of plague fill the streets, and danger feels never far away.

As tensions rise, Lizzie finds herself caught between loyalty, friendship and the expectations placed upon her. When the Great Fire of London begins to spread, she must summon courage she never knew she had—not only to save the bookshop, but to protect those around her.

Rich in historical detail and full of atmosphere, this is a vivid and engaging story that brings seventeenth-century London to life. Both dramatic and deeply human, it explores resilience, friendship and the power of standing up for what is right.

A compelling read for young readers, and a particularly meaningful choice for those fascinated by London’s history and the story of St Paul’s Cathedral itself.

Product Details:

• A gripping historical novel set in London during the Great Fire of 1666
• Follows a young heroine navigating loss, friendship and a changing world
• Set around a bookshop in the shadow of St Paul’s Cathedral
• Written by Catherine Randall, shortlisted for the Young Quills Award
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: Approx. 200
• Reading Age: 9–12