The Wolf Wilder By Katherine Rundell - Ages 9-12 - Fiction - Paperback
Free 48-Hour Delivery
On orders over £35
Fast UK Dispatch
Orders shipped within 24 hours
Easy 30-Day Returns
Hassle-free returns on eligible items
Secure Checkout
Safe & encrypted payment options
Title:
The Wolf Wilder
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
Overview:
Step into a snowbound Russia where Feodora—known to her mother as Feo—lives with warmth, food, and fireplaces in a house of quiet resilience. Nearby, in a ruined chapel, a pack of wolves moves with wild, wary grace. Feo’s mother is a wolf wilder, and Feo is training to follow in her pawprints: a wolf wilder teaches tamed animals to reclaim their wildness, to fight when needed, to run when needed, and to trust their own instincts again. But when the ruthless pressures of the Russian Army threaten their very existence, Feo must leave the safety of her home and strike out across a perilous landscape. What follows is a sweeping, heart-stopping adventure about courage, loyalty, and the stubborn, hopeful belief that even in the harshest seasons, love and freedom can endure. The Wolf Wilder blends history, survival, and myth with a lyrical touch that fans of atmospheric storytelling will adore. Gelrev Ongbico’s wintry illustrations give the cold world a haunting, tactile presence that lingers long after the last page. This standalone novel is a perfect pick for readers who crave immersive historical fiction, animal-centered adventures, and fearless heroines.
In short, it’s the story of a girl who refuses to surrender to fear, who learns to trust her own strength, and who discovers that the wild isn’t just outside—it lives inside those who dare to defend what they love. The Wolf Wilder stands as a testament to resilience, community, and the extraordinary bonds that form when humans and animals learn to read each other’s signals in a world where survival demands both cunning and compassion. The book’s quiet revolution at its heart makes it not only a page-turner but a powerful invitation to stand up for what matters.
What Makes This Book Stand Out:
The Wolf Wilder distinguishes itself through a rare fusion of historical texture, wilderness atmospherics, and a fiercely independent heroine. Katherine Rundell’s writing, celebrated for its lyrical precision, places Feo at the centre of a perilous journey that fuses intimate, domestic moments with sweeping, snowbound expanses. The concept of a “wolf wilder”—the counterpoint to pet-keeping aristocracy—offers a vivid, morally layered lens on power, responsibility, and freedom. The relationship between Feo and the wolves—especially her kin-like bond with the wild animals—feels audacious, tender, and entirely convincing. Gelrev Ongbico’s illustrations heighten the wintry mood, letting frost and breath feel tangible on the page. Critics have praised Rundell’s ability to blend stark danger with heart and wit, making this a standout for readers who love character-driven adventure set against a tumultuous historical backdrop.
Who This Book Is Perfect For:
Ideal for inquisitive middle-grade readers and older children who relish survival stories, nature writing, and character-driven quests. It’s a superb pick for families and classrooms exploring resilience, autonomy, and the tension between civilization and the wild. Fans of historical fiction with a dash of myth and a heroine who refuses to yield will find Feo’s journey especially compelling. The Wolf Wilder also makes a memorable gift for readers who enjoyed other nature-forward adventures or who seek powerful female protagonists who confront injustice with courage and wit. For readers who value lush prose and cinematic, wintry settings, this is a perfect match.
Key Highlights:
- Standalone historical adventure with a bold, resourceful heroine
- Unique concept of a wolf wilder and the ethics of taming vs. wilding
- Snowy, atmospheric setting that feels almost cinematic
- Emotional core of resilience, loyalty, and standing up to oppression
- Lyric, immersive prose complemented by striking wintry illustrations
- Accessible for readers transitioning from middle-grade to young adult themes
About the Author:
Katherine Rundell is a celebrated British author whose books fuse adventure, nature, and human courage. The Wolf Wilder sits alongside her acclaimed titles such as Rooftoppers and The Explorer, which have earned widespread praise and multiple awards. Rundell’s work is renowned for its vivid landscapes, concise yet evocative prose, and strong, morally thoughtful heroines who navigate difficult choices with wit and heart. Her storytelling has captivated readers and critics alike, earning her a reputation as one of today’s leading voices in children’s literature.
Why You’ll Love This Book:
If you’re a reader who adores immersive, character-led adventures with a dash of history and a touch of rebellion, this is your book. Feo’s fearless resolve is contagious, and the wolves’ bond with her—built on trust, mutual respect, and shared instinct—offers a refreshing take on friendship and loyalty. The Wolf Wilder is a compelling read-aloud and a thoughtful solo read, perfect for gifting to curious minds who crave depth, atmosphere, and a heroine who fights not with fury but with stubborn hope. Its compact, elegant storytelling makes it a standout addition to any family or classroom library, a title you’ll return to when you want a story that feels both intimate and epic.
Please Note: The individual books included in this listing will be dispatched as per the original UK ISBN and UK edition cover image shown in the image.
