B.C. writer John Wilson is well known for his historical adventures for teens, including And in the Morning and Where Soldiers Lie. In his latest novel for teens, The Alchemist's Dream, Wilson fleshes out the stories of explorers Henry Hudson, Sir Thomas Smythe and his central character, Robert Bylot, all of whom were instrumental in the search for the Northwest Passage.

Bylot comes under the tutelage of John Dee, an alchemist and mysticist and one of the most famous men of his time. Thus begins Bylot's journey into the world of maritime exploring, mystic searches for a Golden Age in the New World, plagues, starvation and mutiny.

The Alchemist's Dream is a gripping, exciting tale full of fascinating details about Elizabethan life, life on the sea and mysticism.