We meet Wonder Quinn, with her gloomy crow companion, seated on the roof of the school watching the students arrive for the start of the new year. We know, immediately, that there’s something special about her. She wears sadness like a comfortable old jumper. We’re delighted when she makes a friend in Mabel, the new girl. However, as the story unfolds, we begin to suspect what Wonder’s secret might be, but we don’t want to believe it. Then, we discover that Mabel, too, has something that she doesn’t want the other girls to know about. She’s a brave young lady. It’s lovely that these two little girls find such a deep friendship when they both need love and comfort. We cheer when Mabel sorts out the school bully. We cry when we know what will happen to Mabel. We hope that it will end well.

Gordon’s prose sings like a plaintive ballad. She has a way of weaving words together that is almost like making magic. This is an exquisitely sad story, but it’s laced with courage, tenderness and the strength of friendship. It is a tragedy that has firm foundations in love. Even though the text is best for a younger reader, it shouldn’t be reserved just for them. Anyone who enjoys good literature will love Wonder’s heartsong.

Reviewed by Wendy Noble
Age Guide 8+