Chris Emmett

Mary traces the lives of a woman caught in a scandal of adultery, another rejected and ignored because of her promiscuity, a third shunned because of a shameful condition, and a widow cast out from society, mourning the loss of her only son.

Four children—George, Ellie, Pip, and Lucy—discover a magical sand fairy known as 'The Psammead' that grants wishes, leading to meeting their future selves and their aunt as a child.