Barnaby the Wanderer

Recall the cinder-girls and ash-lads of old tales; enduring the mockery and abuse of their hollow families. What makes them rise one day, and set forth to seek their fortune? Maybe just the curiosity to see what lies beyond the road's turn. Else it's the dream of proving themselves, winning a kingdom. Or just maybe, they hope to find a real family?

Barnaby the Miller's son; Barnaby the village fool. He's spent his days staring into the hearth flames, the butt of jokes and insults. Till one day he sets forth to wander the roads of the sweet, wicked world. Barnaby is searching for adventure, beauty, friends; maybe even a princess. And he'll find all these things, on his way to a magic tower cursed by the saints. While all through the steps of his long journey, the cursed tower waits patiently for him.

From the book:

"I am pleased to see you again," declared Barnaby. "You look far better than when I saw you last, Master Dark Michael. And have you seen the donkey?"

At which question Professor Night-Creep laughed. A high laugh that hurt the ears, like icicles worming towards the brain. While the ghost shook his head. Rising again, he returned hands to coat pockets. Then stood awhile studying Barnaby with those cavernous eyes.

"The donkey?"

"Yes," affirmed Barnaby. "You recall him, surely? I worry that farmer might treat him ill."

"You are bound in the dark, prisoner of those who beat you. Trapped with a mad ghost and a witch's familiar. And you ask about a donkey?"

Barnaby considered. Was he being foolish? These two did not seem to mean him ill. And what an amazing thing, to talk to a ghost and a cat. On the very same night in the very same basement. Who knew but the donkey could talk as well? Barnaby had not thought to ask it. But what would one ask a donkey? For that matter, what would a donkey ask a miller?