The Wings of a Falcon

Cynthia Voigt has created a legend - Oriel, boy-prisoner on a despot's island, with his travelling companion, Griff, escape their master's clutches and journey together in search of their fortunes. 'Oriel is a boy born to rule, Griff to follow - but as adviser, guide and friend. Their travels are long - almost 500 pages - and end in both triumph and tragedy with the customary skilful Voigt sting in the tale. This is her best writing since the Tillerman family series, but it's dense and philosophical, making it most appropriate for able Year 9 readers. I feel a sequel coming on...