Wolf Girl by Theresa Tomlinson

Author: Theresa Tomlinson
ISBN # 0552552712
Publisher: Corgi Books
1^st Published: 2006
372 pages

Cwen, a poor weaver struggling to make a living at Whitby Abbey, is accused of possessing a valuable necklace that cannot possibly be hers. If she is found guilty she could be hanged, burned or stoned. Cwen’s daughter, Wulfrun, desperate to prove her mother’s innocence, encounters lies and treachery wherever she turns for help. Set in a turbulent period of Anglo-Saxon England, this is a story of a resourceful, dauntless heroine, determined and clever as a wolf. Through defying rank and convention, braving wind, weather and marauding armies, Wulfrun shows that courage has its own just reward.

This is one of the best books I have read this year. Exciting, adventurous and a richly woven story that brings Anglo-Saxon Northumbria vividly to life. The characters are warm and engaging, the plot is intriguing and the journey of self-discovery will appeal to all young readers as they join Wulfrun in trying to unravel the mystery of the necklace. The underlying message is to trust in yourself and not to judge a book by its cover, as help can come from the most unlikely places!

Theresa Tomlinson is a highly talented storyteller and this story will appeal to older readers and young adults.

Rating: 9