The King’s Conservatorium

In the Kingdom of Elatha, where music and song are outlawed, orphaned brothers Garlan and Cadell

flee abusive foster parents. Like many people in their world, they make their way in life by living on

the road. Thirteen-year-old Garlan, deemed too young to care for his brother, takes risks and grapples

with breaking rules as they evade authorities.

Yearning to sing, Galan dreams of the world beyond Elatha’s walls that his parents told him about.

It’s rumoured that no one has survived attempts to cross the wall that runs along the border of Elatha.

Those who were caught trying were arrested and sent to the king’s mines for life. Every night, Garlan

quietly sings to Cadell, who is mute.

Threatened with separation, the boys make a life-changing decision to embark on a dangerous journey.

Though there is no certainty, the Other Side offers a chance to nourish their hearts. Their frightening

escapade leads to opportunities they never imagined. It also means they must make the most heart-

breaking decision of all.

The brothers’ heart-warming devotion to one another is deeply engaging and sends a strong message

of hope. Anyone who appreciates music and song will identify with this story. It reminds us that even

impossible circumstances are survivable if you have the love and passion necessary to fight for a

better world.