Rowan and the Zebak

"Rowan and the Zebak" is a 2002 children's fantasy novel by Australian author Emily Rodda. It is the fourth book in the Rowan of Rin series.

Plot summary

Rowan's younger sister, Annad, is snatched from Rin by a flying monster. Rowan must travel to the land of the Zebak - Rin's greatest enemies - in order to rescue her. As she has several times before, the witch Sheba gives a prophecy to guide them on their quest:

:"Five strange fingers form fate's hand,":"Each plays a part at fate's command,":"The fiery blaze the answer keeps,":"And till its time each secret sleeps,":"When pain is truth and truth is pain,":"The painted shadows live again,":"Five leave but five do not return,":"Vain hope in pride and terror burn"

The five fingers become Rowan, his Zebak born traveller friend Zeel, Allun the baker, A Maris friend, Perlain, and Sheba through correspondence.