BOOK REVIEW: Fly By Night by Frances Hardinge

While many books find themselves endowed with memorable prose, few leave me so befuddled or turning to frequently to my dictionary. France Hardinge's Fly By Night, however, had me both on the edge of my seat and perplexed by its verbiage on every

page.

This novel bears such a unique setting with a rich conglomerate of culture, and its tone is such that as a reader one has no option except to catch on to the jargon of the story. No merciful explanation will be offered to explain the many mixing kingdoms, statues, and spiritual guides. It is such a fast-paced tale that I found myself enthralled by the adventure and by the sheer originality of it all.

A Note on the Author

Frances Hardinge has been inspired to write for much of her life, and many of her creative ideas and settings come from her childhood home in England. Later in life, Hardinge studied English at Oxford University, and has since become an award-winning children's and young adult author. Fly By Night was her debut novel, and my first exposure to her work. Hardinge's voice is among the most unique I've had the joy of reading, and I am only left to wonder exactly how much of herself is reflected in the sometimes challenging character of Mosca Mye.

Photo Credit: The Guardian (2019)

SPOILERS!

Perhaps my favorite thing about my edition of the book is the Disclaimer included on the last page, which absolutely seems to showcase Hardinge's authentic voice. Therein she writes,

"This is not a historical novel...I have taken appalling liberties with historical authenticity and, when I felt like it, the laws of physics" (Hardinge 487).

Frankly, the energy just makes me further appreciate this book.

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