Deep in the heart of a mist-shrouded island, an impossible secret is about to be discovered.
Deep in the mist-shrouded forests of an old and haunted island, one girl will come face to face with the most elusive and legendary creature: a unicorn.
Sent to live on an island ranch for troubled teens, twelve-year-old Twig is the sole witness to the birth of a unicorn. With the help of a ghostly boy, she sets out to raise the young Wonder Light. But she soon finds the island is not as peaceful as it seems. To save her new home and the last unicorn herd, Twig will have to become Wonder Light's rider and take her first steps into a world she never thought possible.
Industry Reviews
"There are some really amazing middle grade books being published, and this is definitely one of them. I loved all the characters, but Twig captured my heart and I rooted for her throughout the entire book.You've never read about unicorns like this! " - Books for Kids
"I totally enjoyed this story... I'm from Seattle and really loved the island setting. Add in all the great characters - Twig is wonderful! - and you have something very special that I can sell." - Loretta Houck, Laughing Dog Books, Boonville, CA
"This is a wonderful coming of age book for the middle school crowd. I loved the name Twig and that she finds that she is brave, talented, and strong. I really cant wait for the next one! This book will appeal to the girls from ages 8 to 13." - Witchever
" This is definitely a fantasy novel for older children who want more than the traditional unicorns they grew up with, but still covet the whimsy of fantasy they bring to a story. Readers will want to be in Twig's shoes, experiencing much of her adventure first-hand." - A Backwards Story
" I absolutely love the main character, Twig, her courage and will power to help save the unicorns along with the other girls and trying to keep the entire island safe just amazes me. She's exactly what a lead female character needs to be, loyal, brave and kind-heartedThis was a quick read and it was really good. It's recommended for kids nine and up, but my seven year old is reading this right now and she's loving every bit of it" - Just Us Girls
"This was a truly mystical and enchanting middle grade fantasy novel that engages the reader from the first pages. The writing was fast paced and had a great flow, which definitely keeps the reader engaged and eagerly turning the pages to see what will happen next. This is a great middle grade fantasy novel that readers of all ages will want to dive into." - A Dream Within A Dream
"Wonder Light is a great middle-grade debut from R. R. Russell, with intrigue and heart. I was really touched by the interactions between the girls, and the Murleys, and I look forward to reading more from this author. " - Once Upon A Prologue
"There's enough depth to the plot and protagonist of WONDER LIGHT that older readers might find themselves pleasantly surprised. But it's definitely a great choice for the elementary or middle school kid who likes fantasy." - In Bed With Books
"In this atmospheric debut, the unassuming and subtle fantasy elements take a backseat to Twig's growing faith in herself and trust in others.The combination of horses, unicorns, and an offbeat girl is a winning one." - Booklist
"Young adult readers and their parents will appreciate Russell's message that sometimes it just takes one person (or animal) to believe in you to make all the difference." - Portland Book Review
"I was sucked into this book from the get-go. I have never wanted a character to succeed more than I do Twig. She is a well-written character that has many layers. Some still to be uncovered. I loved how her character opened up and changed throughout this book. Not only with Twig, but with the other characters, as well. This is a book I highly recommend!" - To Read or Not to Read
"Wonder Light is an imaginative adventure for kids ages 9 and up." - Sweeps 4 Bloggers
" It's a great book that plenty of girls will absolutely love. In particular girls who come from troubled homes (or are in foster care) and may be looking for a character that shows incredible strength after living through some traumatic events." - Candace's Book Blog
"Wonder Light is a suspenseful, exciting read especially for children who yearn for adventure and "something more" from their fairy tales. For families who like to read aloud, this is perfectly written for bedtime story time. Kudos to R.R. Russell for writing such a brilliant novel in a genre that is often lacking in substance!" - Blook Girl
"Twig's character, as well as her plights, will quickly capture the reader's heart regardless of age! And, with unexpected twists and turns throughout, this story is sure to keep the youngest of readers intrigued and guessing the outcome. Unlike any previous story about Unicorns, Russell is a fresh and unique voice in children's literature. I enjoyed this debut novel tremendously... a delightful new series and one that I highly recommend...FIVE stars! " - Through the Open Book
"Join Twig on a journey of discovery, whereby she discovers her true self along the way and finds she is far braver than she ever knew. Wonder Light: Unicorns of the Mist" is a book for those of us who believe in wonder and mystery, both within, and without ourselves. " - CPA Mom
"I can easily see this book, and series, being a popular one in grades three through six classrooms - with a relatable character, a good mystery and the fun fantasy elements, Wonder Light: Unicorns of the Mist will definitely keep you reading." - Escape Through The Pages
"Fast-paced with intriguing insights into Twig's struggles, this is a good story for young teens. Reluctant readers will be intrigued and become involved. Recommended." - Library Media Connection