Special thanks to the wonderful people at Pajama Press Inc. for an advanced copy of Cuckoo’s Flight for review. I was a little worried I would be lost because I have not yet read Swallow’s Dance or Dragonfly Song. I was so pleased when I began this lyrical story that I did not need to have the background of the other two books to enjoy. This beautiful story stands on its own as a tale of a strong young woman on the precipice of adulthood, navigating her world a little differently from everyone else.

Clio is beginning to figure out her world and her place in it. As a young woman in Crete she has a responsibility to continue her mother’s craft of pottery, however she is passionate about caring for and raising horses, very unusual for the time. An injury has left her disabled and not able to ride her precious Grey Girl, however her father builds her a chariot so she can again feel the joy of riding. The appearance of a menacing black ship in the harbour sets in motion a series of harrowing events, new friendships and a knowledge and realization of Clio’s strengths and her path as she grows.

Wendy Orr seamlessly transitions from prose to verse throughout the story adding layer upon layer to this dynamic and thrilling story. Set on the island of Crete during the Bronze Age, readers learn a little more about this vibrant time in history in a place known as the first advanced civilization in Europe. Through the passages in verse readers gain a greater understanding of Clio, her struggle with the path her life seems to be taking and a resistance to what feels like the inevitable. 

Clio is affected by all of the emotions and turmoil of a typical young person. She feels anxious about the future, jealous of the horse’s affections for another, responsible for her family. Clio is a strong and confident young woman, especially when she is with her beloved horse Grey Girl. Her disability may prevent her from riding on Grey Girls back however she learns to communicate with the horse in another way, gaining confidence to see her through the story. The author too has a disability that prevents her from horseback riding, so I especially love Wendy Orr’s decision to put a little bit of herself into the story. Clio’s disability makes her strong and does not hinder her contributions to society which is an important message to send to young readers. Disability may prevent certain actions however it does not negate a person’s ability to contribute to society and be a force in saving a village.

The cover art is incredible and be sure to read the author’s notes and acknowledgements. Had this book been written in a different time, the story would have looked significantly different. The story is beautiful, relevant, engaging and thought provoking.