Wundersmith

 Author: Jessica Townsend

ISBN: 9780734418227

Hi Everyone

For the first half of this novel, I struggled to feel the spark that a good story gives. I contemplated starting a new book, one that had a bit more ... something. Then, about halfway through, I decided to take the time to think about what I was reading. When I take time to think and read, the whole book changes for me. As did Wundersmith. That is not to say that the first half was perfect. I think it could have been better, considering this is a novel aimed at young people, and how many young people take the time to analyse what they are reading, They shouldn't have to, they should be able to be drawn into the novel like a movie playing in their head, transported from all the troubles of their world.

So let's look at the concepts that I have come to find interesting:

Loyalty - there are things that the characters had to do, else a secret was going to be released. I liked that each character had to make their decision, and the outcomes aligned with the purpose of the plot. I have a few concerns about the depth of the emphasis put on 'loyalty to friendships'. Especially for young people trying to navigate the dynamics around them every day. A decision should come down to what an individual believes is the right thing. I felt there was a bit too much 'pressure' put on some decisions. I would have liked to see one or two navigate their decisions a little more to show young readers that their argument, decision, or belief is also valid. Nonetheless, the outcome does bring everything together very well in the novel.

Friendship - Morrigan feels she has a family/friendship base, finally in her life. Once again, in the end it all comes together. Throughout the novel, some of these friendships are absolutely rubbish. Morrigan is rejected, humiliated, shunned, misunderstood, and the opposite on all levels, all the way through the novel. Of course, all turns out great, and another dynamic is added at the end to keep the reader opening the next book. And, I will be opening the next book because I am enjoying the journey through the Nevermoor series. 

Good versus evil - This one is interesting. Who is good and who is evil? It is hard to tell. There are so many twists and turns in Wundersmith that you have to keep checking in. What characters are really who they say they are.  This is a good concept for life lessons. We all come across people who we think are wonderful, only to find they are far from it once the curtains are opened on their true self. There are also those whom we judge far too quickly, only to find they are really great people.  Wundersmith shows this concept extremely well.

I guess what I am thinking is, this series has given me a lot to think about. There is more to be uncovered in the third book of this series, ' Hollowpox - The Hunt for Morrigan Crow.  I have it in my hand and will update you on my thoughts on Hollowpox soon.

Description:

Wunder is gathering

Morrigan Crow has escaped her deadly fate and found a new home in the fantastical city of Nevermoor. She has also discovered that she has a strange and magical ability. But will her unique talent be a blessing or another curse?

Now that  Morrigan and her best friend Hawthorne are proud scholars in the elite Wundrous Society, she is sure that she's found a place to belong at last, but life is far from perfect. Can Morrigan prove that she deserves to be in the Society - or will an unexpected enemy run in her life?

Happy reading