The Winds of Heaven

During a visit to her cousin Fan's home in the Australian countryside in 1952, anxious Clementine is charmed by the spirited 10-year-old, even as she despises the cruel aunt who belittles and abuses Fan. Though subsequent visits and letters are rare, their bond remains over the years, though Clementine grows increasingly guilty, feeling a "sense of luck and privilege," as she goes off to university while Fan sinks into depression after an unhappy teenage marriage and children of her own. From the intimate portraits of both girls, readers will understand the advantages and challenges of each cousin's life. Mostly, though, they will be moved by how Printz Honor–winner Clarke's (One Whole and Perfect Day) vivid, beautifully told novel captures how powerless children can be to control the most basic elements of their lives—and the magical connections they can form despite their hardships. Clementine and Fan's love is particularly moving in small moments, as when Fan comes out of a spontaneous cartwheel, "hand held out, palm open, as if she were presenting to her cousin... everything marvelous she might ever do in the world." Ages 14–up. (Oct.)