59 pages 1 hour read

Christina Soontornvat

A Wish in the Dark

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Inspired by Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables and set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world, Christina Soontornvat's middle-grade novel A Wish in the Dark follows 13-year-olds Pong and Nok in the city of Chattana under the oppressive rule of the Governor. After Pong escapes from prison, he and Nok confront challenging truths about justice, redemption, and freedom, ultimately learning what it means to shine a light. Topics of familial incarceration, systemic oppression, and child abduction are present.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Christina Soontornvat's A Wish in the Dark captivates readers with its rich Thai-inspired fantasy world and compelling moral themes. Praised for its vibrant setting and complex characters, the novel addresses social justice and personal redemption. However, some readers found certain plot developments predictable. Overall, it’s an engaging and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Wish in the Dark?

Readers who would enjoy A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat are fans of compelling, socially relevant fantasy with rich world-building and moral complexity. Similar in spirit to The Girl Who Drank the Moon and A Wrinkle in Time, it appeals to those who appreciate middle-grade literature that blends adventure with profound themes.

RecommendedReading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

720L

Book Details

Genre

Fantasy

Action / Adventure

Magical Realism

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice

Period

Asian Literature