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.
Have you been unexpectedly burdened by a recently orphaned or unclaimed creature? Worry not! We have just the solution for you!
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. Richly imagined, with shimmering language, steampunk motifs, and gripping, magical plot twists, this high adventure fantasy is the debut novel of award-winning memoirist Mira Bartók and has already been put into development for a major motion picture.
Miss Carbunkles Home for Wayward and Misbegotten Creatures is an austere orphanage, Groundling children restrained within the oppressive, debilitated compound, labouring for their survival. Number Thirteen is a misbegotten, lonely, one eared Foxling, gallant and courageous as he encounters a small, flightless feathered friend. Trinket is an wondrous inventor, sharing stories of fantastical worlds of knights and kingdoms, declaring Thirteen shall now be known as Arthur for his bravery, the little Foxling destined for valiancy.
And in his sleep he began to form a song from their sorrow. But he had far to go before he would sing it.
Eleven year old Arthur is a delicate and compassionate young Foxling, a discarded orphan at the Home for Wayward and Misbegotten Creatures. Unbeknownst to Arthur, destiny awaits. Arthur and Trinket are wonderful companions. With a key, an address, a blanket fragment and a bygone lullaby, Arthur and his feathered companion embark on an adventure to fantastical worlds, on a journey of self discovery.
Miss Carbunkle is a tyrannical, callous woman, her blundering assistant Mister Sneezeweed, a snivelling, loathsome man. As Arthur discovers a world brimming with vibrancy, the Home for Wayward and Misbegotten Creatures remains silent, melodies as forbidden as imagination is prohibited. Miss Carbunkle has devious intentions. Beyond the orphanage compound is a malevolent world of privilege and poverty, Groundlings are considered insignificant and segregated.
Arthur's heart ached. But it wasn't that he was terribly sad. It just simply ached, as if it were too full and the contents had nowhere to go.
Along their journey, Arthur and Trinket discover stupendous characters before separating, namely forest dweller Pinecone and his family. As Trinket visits her tinkering Uncle, Arthur traverses the Great White City of Lumentown, a city of contrasts and castes, only to discover Quintus, a pilfering rodent who guides Arthur on his journey. Pevill is magnificent, an astute little mouse, thespian and poet. The essence of The Wonderling is acceptance and belonging, emphasising the need for compassion. A breathtaking and atmospheric middle grade adventure, exquisite and captivating until the final page.
