The Wind Singer

Kestrel and her family don't fit in. Aramanth is run by tests and ratings and rankings, but neither Kestrel or her brother, Bowman, or her sister, baby PinPin, or her parents like these ways of doing things. Kestrel rebels and her entire family is punished, and, after an odd meeting with the emperor, is off to save her country by restoring the voice of the Wind Singer.

The Wind Singer is that elusive fantasy novel—serious and thoughtful, but also light and silly. The whole Hath family is jolly and fun, even in the midst of disaster. The image of the emperor who can't rule or take any action to improve his country because he can't bear to leave his dish of chocolates is fascinating. Lovely story.

A 1001 Children's Book You Must Read.