The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Now, 200 years later, the great lamps that light the city are beginning to flicker. When Lina finds part of an ancient message, she's sure it holds a secret that will save the city.

Lina and Doon go back underground to the dying city of Ember as bestselling author DuPrau juxtaposes yet another action-packed adventure with powerful themes about hope, learning, and the search for truth.

The People of Sparks picks up where The City of Ember leaves off. Lina and Doon have emerged from the underground city to the exciting new world above, and it isn't long before they are followed by the other inhabitants of Ember. The Emberites soon come across a town where they are welcomed, fed, and given places to sleep. But the town's resources are limited and it isn't long before resentment be ...

In this prequel to her acclaimed "The City of Ember" and "The People of Sparks," Jeanne DuPrau investigates how, in a world that seems out of control, hope and comfort can be found in the strangest of places.