Mira Bartók Boeken

In this extraordinary debut novel, Mira Bartók introduces Arthur, a shy, fox-like foundling with one ear and a longing to belong. He finds himself at the Home for Wayward and Misbegotten Creatures, run by the malevolent Miss Carbunkle, who sees her terrified charges as mere tools for servitude. The groundlings, part animal and part human, are forced to labor in classrooms and factories, deprived of joys like singing and music. Arthur, known only by the number 13 etched on a medallion, has never known another home. However, an unexpected act of bravery leads him to form a bond with Trinket, a young bird groundling, who gifts him a real name—Arthur, inspired by the noble king of old tales—and a true friendship. Together, they use Trinket’s clever invention to escape the confines of the Home, embarking on an adventure that reveals Arthur's true destiny. With rich imagination, shimmering language, steampunk elements, and captivating plot twists, this high fantasy tale promises an exhilarating journey and has already garnered attention for a major motion picture adaptation.

<b>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.</b> <i>Have you been unexpectedly burdened by a recently orphaned or unclaimed creature? Worry not! We have just the solution for you!</i> 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.