The Wonder

The Wonder is a compelling tale set in the 1850s Irish Midlands, where the boundaries between faith and reality blur in the most extraordinary ways. Eleven-year-old Anna O'Donnell has inexplicably stopped eating, yet she remains in good health, which raises eyebrows and suspicions within her community. This phenomenon draws the attention of a nurse and a journalist, each with their own motives, who are determined to uncover the truth behind Anna's survival.

The Plot

The narrative unfolds as the nurse, tasked with monitoring Anna's condition, and the journalist, eager to capture a sensational story, delve into the complexities of the girl’s life. As they dig deeper, they encounter a web of societal pressures, religious fervour, and the disturbing trend of "fasting girls," where young women are believed to possess miraculous abilities. The tension escalates as both women confront the potential dangers lurking beneath Anna's miraculous façade, leading them to question the very nature of faith, truth, and the sacrifices made in the name of belief.

Themes

• Faith vs. Skepticism: The struggle between belief and doubt is central to the story.
• Societal Pressures: The narrative examines how societal expectations shape individual choices.
• The Nature of Truth: The quest for truth challenges characters' perceptions and motivations.

"A haunting exploration of belief and the lengths to which people will go to protect their truths."

Readers who enjoyed Room by Emma Donoghue or The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman may find a similar depth of character exploration and moral complexity in The Wonder.