Unicorns + spooky, misty island + wild boy + home for “troubled” girls= an instant read for this girl! I went into R.R. Russell’s Wonder Light already loving the premise and am so happy to report that the book lived up to and surpassed my expectations!Twelve year old Twig is sent to live on a pony ranch for “troubled” girls, after a dangerous incident at home involving her new step-family. The misty, mysterious island spooks Twig at first, but then she discovers something magical, miraculous, and marvelous: a pure white, baby unicorn! Ben, a wild boy from the woods, tells Twig that she must keep the baby unicorn safe from the otherworldly dangers that lurk in the woods. Twig must overcome her own fears and past to protect her new home, friends, and Wonder Light (the unicorn).Wonder Light is one of those magical, enchanting books that had me tingling with anticipation before I even read a word, and left me completely charmed and dazzled! With a spectacularly spooky setting, wonderful storytelling, and irresistible characters, this is one fantastically fun fantasy.With a pitch-perfect middle-grade voice, mesmerizing atmosphere, and palpable emotion, Russell weaves a captivating and unique fantasy tale. The mist shrouded island, which is equal parts eerie; inviting; and intriguing, provides the perfect backdrop to such a fantastical story. Unicorns, magic, other worlds- the lovely fantasy elements are both familiar and refreshingly spun, dark and whimsical, beautiful and frightening. Part fantasy adventure and part coming of age story, Wonder Light is a grand mix of thrills, mystery, humor, heart, and wonder. I loved getting swept away into and falling in love with this world with Twig! Twig is such an awesome, relatable heroine! I just love her wit, compassion, spunk, and spirit. Twig’s new home is filled with wonderful characters, from the loving Murleys to the other lovable girls and the sweet ponies. And Ben, the mysterious “wild” boy of the woods, is such a fun, endearing character to get to know. But Wonder Light, the breathtaking unicorn, really shines and stole my heart! The relationship and bond between Twig and Wonder is just so gorgeous and special and heartwarming. The last couple of chapters had me turning pages especially fast, desperate to know what happens. The ending of book one totally thrilled and satisfied me, but definitely has me excited for book two!My Final Thoughts: There’s so much about Wonder Light that I love: the sparkling storytelling, beautiful fantasy elements, lovable characters, and so much more! R.R. Russell has crafted a truly special and unforgettable middle-grade tale, that will have readers of all ages believing in wonders and miracles! WONDER LIGHT caught my attention from the opening chapters. Twig is going to Lonehorn Island because it has a ranch for delinquent girls. She's not happy about it, but at the same time doesn't want to stay with her stepmother. But it's quickly clear that Twig isn't an entirely reliable narrator.R.R. Russell does a wonderful job of combining Twig's family drama with a tale about unicorns. Twig begins the book feeling unwanted, unloved, and unworthy. But after she takes responsibility for Wild Light, an orphaned baby unicorn, she begins to find her footing. As a bonus, these aren't treacly, fluffy unicorns. They're wild animals, and when they go bad they hunger for flesh. Fans of this series are going to grow up to read Diana Peterfreund's RAMPANT.I wish there had been a bit more development of the other girls on the island. But since this is the beginning of a series, there's time for that. And really, Twig's characterization and growth is given quite a bit of depth. Don't worry that this is too girlish; there is a boy on the island, known initially as the "wild boy." He's a good companion to Twig, and I liked seeing their friendship and mutual respect grow.There's enough depth to the plot and protagonist of WONDER LIGHT that older readers might find themselves pleasantly surprised. But it's definitely a great choice for the elementary or middle school kid who likes fantasy and being a little creeped out. Pick it up if you're hooked by the words "killer unicorns."The ebook is on sale through August 4 for $1.99.
What do You think about Wonder Light (2013)?
I enjoyed getting to know these characters and I can't wait to read more about this world!
—lyan
AMAZING!! You should not skip this book, it is perfect for 8-12 year old girls!
—averonica
