'Prince Freak,' people call him, staring and warding off evil as he passes. He alone bears the mark of his time as a swan in place of his left arm he carries a white wing. Through their sisters determination they were all changed back into humans-all but the youngest, Ardwin.

He and his brothers were enchanted-changed into swans-by their evil stepmother. If you like MG, fairytale retellings and fantasy, definitely pick this up.What if happily ever after isn't happy for everyone? Certainly, it would be on a 'top whatever' list for fairy tale retellings from me.

It's just an awesome read - I finished it in 2 days and it's one I definitely want to re-read someday. He goes through some great growth throughout the story. The main character, Ardwin is definitely a headstrong brat, but also someone who is bullied and shunned by many of those around him. It was refreshing and full of feels and adventure and fairy tale vibes! I loved the dynamic between the brother and his sister and the tension caused by the curse she lived through and did her best to lift off her brothers. I don't have a lot to say about this book, because I just loved it. It's a middle-grade retelling of the six swans tale (I keep calling it Seven Swans because of that Sufjan Stevens song lol) from the point of view of the youngest brother who is left with a bird wing because his sister didn't finish his shirt in time.

I'd praise the cover art, as it stands out from all my other books, but I feel that might look a bit silly. Definitely recommend this for at least one good read before you put it on a shelf. It fits into the category that would appeal to teenagers and kids who feel like they don't fit in most, but alienated adults could just as easily see the m.c as a likable character from start to finish. It did have moments that nearly bucked me off and left me too flustered to continue, some lines have to be read twice, but the ride is definitely worth it. The build up gets you to know the main character, his motivations, the wind up right before the swing really leaves you hoping he will accomplish these goals set in stone, and from there it's a ride worth the wait. I found it good then, and later, good enough to purchase and reread, it starts much like any Brother's Grimm tale or fairy tale of the older variety would, with some drag, some stalling, and you hoping it gets to the point or something happens before you skip to another story, when it takes action and starts moving is when it's good as gold. This book was a happy accident while cleaning through a school library with limited reading variety.

Birdwing by rafe martin