The Song of the Swan

Sutton's 'The Song of the Swan' is a delightful retelling of a classic tale that transports the reader into an original world of Slavic origin. While unnamed, the setting is part of the novel's appeal and this fantastic setting creates a cozy blanket to encompass you in as you read. The story encapsulates a sense of wonder and mystique that will leave readers in a spell-like enchantment to finish the book. The combination of fairy tale elements and new additions means there are plenty of twists and turns to satisfy the reader.

Although the novel is intended for a younger audience it still offers young readers the chance to consider more complex themes and opens the conversation of complex and flawed characters. While at times the lead protagonist Olga may seem self-centered, it is her discovery of her flaws and her subsequent quest for redemption that makes up for this. Children may find themselves wondering, as a result, what aspirations they have that could lead them to the same fate as some of these characters.

Illustrator Pauliina Hannuneimi's style is woven through the pages and the novel itself is accessible to young readers but also provides plenty of new words to boost their vocabulary. Parents won't mind being involved in telling this tale either, with the roots of traditional storytelling always providing a sense of comfort and familiarity regardless of age.