Description
Wonder Quinn is a lonely orphan who lives in the attic of Direleafe Hall with only a gloomy crow for company. Every year she watches the other girls return to school, hoping to find a friend among them. And every year her heart breaks when she doesn't.
So when a fiery new girl befriends her in class, Wonder's dreams seem to be coming true. Mabel Clattersham is outspoken, kind and, most importantly, unafraid of the awful Georgiana Kinch.
But as the girls grow closer, Wonder discovers her friend has a list of strange wishes - throw a pie, leap into the sky, break someone's heart.
What is Mabel's big secret? And why is she in such a hurry to finish her list? Can Wonder protect her heart from being broken all over again?
The Heartsong of Wonder Quinn is an enchanting fairytale celebrating friendship, bravery and the importance of staying true to yourself.
Review
Wonder is a lonely orphan, who holds out hope of finding a best friend, so she is very happy when the new girl, Mabel, befriends her. Wonder and Mabel fast become best friends, and these two are both characters that readers will love.
Mabel has a list of things to do, and not much time to finish it, so Wonder agrees to help her. This is a beautifully written tale of friendship, loyalty and unconditional love. It is uplifting in many ways, but will also definitely tug on the heartstrings, as Mabel deals with dying by deciding to experience the things she has never done before.
Wonder also needs to face her own reality, as the only person who can see her is Mabel.
This is written as a fairy tale, and will most appeal to girls in upper primary.
Reviewed by Michelle
