“Cartwheeling in Thunderstorms” by Katherine Rundell is a coming-of-age story filled with adventure, family and friendship. The novel follows the life of a young girl, Willa, who moves to Zimbabwe after the death of both of her parents. Willa, alongside her grandmother, must find ways to adapt to their new life. Little do they know that they are about to embark on an incredible journey filled with danger, magic and friendship.
Willa’s grandmother, Mimi, helps her adjust to their life in Zimbabwe, filled with cobras and teeming with exotic wildlife. Together, the two of them attempt to make a new home in their new country. At first, Willa struggles to adapt to the new culture and is reluctant to make any friends. Eventually, Willa meets Kuneyi and Toro, two locals her age who teach her about their customs and beliefs. Willa is quickly drawn to their stories and begins to look forward to her adventures with them.
Unfortunately, Willa and Mimi’s new home in Zimbabwe isn’t as peaceful as they once thought. A civil war begins to break out, with their home caught in the battle. To help protect them and the other locals, Kuneyi and Toro devise a plan and lead Willa on an incredible race to get to safety. Along the way, they encounter many dangerous and thrilling experiences, including extreme weather and running into guerilla soldiers.
Through their journey, Willa learns the importance of family, friendship and surviving in the face of danger. Willa and Kuneyi develop a close bond, which provides her with the strength she needs to persevere. As they make their way to safety, Willa and Kuneyi discover new strength within themselves and finds a family in both their friendship, and the strangers they meet along the way.
The novel culminates in a thrilling climax, as Willa and her friends attempt to cross the remaining miles of African savanna to safety. Capturing the excitement and peril of war, and the lasting bond between friends, “Cartwheeling in Thunderstorms” is a perfect read for anyone looking to join Willa on her journey of self-discovery and courage.
At its core, “Cartwheeling in Thunderstorms” is a coming-of-age story, centered around a young girl’s journey. The novel relays meaningful messages, such as the power of friendship and the bravery it takes to face hardship. With bold characters and vivid settings, the novel is sure to draw in readers of all ages. With its moving story and courageous characters, Katherine Rundell’s “Cartwheeling in Thunderstorms” is sure to delight and captivate readers from start to finish.
