In this extraordinary debut novel with its deft nod to Dickensian heroes and rogues, Mira Bartók tells the story of Arthur, a shy, fox-like foundling with only one ear and a desperate desire to belong, as he seeks his destiny.
Welcome to the Home for Wayward and Misbegotten Creatures, an institution run by evil Miss Carbunkle, a cunning villainess who believes her terrified young charges exist only to serve and suffer. Part animal and part human, the groundlings toil in classroom and factory, forbidden to enjoy anything regular children have, most particularly singing and music. For the Wonderling, an innocent-hearted, one-eared, fox-like eleven-year-old with only a number rather than a proper name — a 13 etched on a medallion around his neck — it is the only home he has ever known. But unexpected courage leads him to acquire the loyalty of a young bird groundling named Trinket, who gives the Home’s loneliest inhabitant two incredible gifts: a real name — Arthur, like the good king in the old stories — and a best friend. Using Trinket’s ingenious invention, the pair escape over the wall and embark on an adventure that will take them out into the wider world and ultimately down the path of sweet Arthur’s true destiny.
Creators
Mira Bartók is a writer and artist whose New York Times best-selling memoir, The Memory Palace: A Memoir, won the National Book Critics Circle Award for Autobiography. The Wonderling is her first novel for young readers. She lives in Western Massachusetts.
Reviews
Every now and then there is published a book that raises the bar in Children and Young Adult literature. This is such a book.
Bob's Books
If Charles Dickens and Tim Burton came together to write a steampunk Wind in the Willows.
In Words and Ink
The book is absolutely beautiful, with quaint pictures interspersed throughout the pages. A true masterpiece that will be a must for the library collection.
Read Plus
A breathtaking and atmospheric middle grade adventure, exquisite and captivating until the final page.
Diva Book Nerd
The Wonderling was a beautifully written, gripping tale, with many twist and turns.
Inside My Words
The language is rich and layered with meaning
Bookrapt
Every now and again there comes a book which defies all description. The Wonderling, debut novel from award winning memoir writer Mira Bartók is one of those books.
Better Reading Kids
This first novel of Bartok’s for younger readers is impressive. Her exquisite artwork is mind-blowing. The book is divine in every way.
Kids Book Review
The Wonderling is full of warmth and soul, and I really enjoyed the book.
Jess Just Reads
The Wonderling is full of warmth and soul, and I really enjoyed the book.
Jess Just Reads