Wonderling

In this extraordinary debut novel with its deft nod to Dickensian heroes and rogues Mira Bartok 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.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.