Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance

October 1, 2017
Weylyn Grey can communicate with animals and manipulate weather, though for the latter he credits his pet pig. He also loves Mary, a biologist who as a child lived with him and his wolf family for three-and-a-half weeks. Lang's first novel tracks the life of this peculiar yet lovable boy from the alternating perspectives of those who knew hima teacher, a mayor, a foster sister, and Mary. With a wry yet vivid style, Lang emphasizes the eccentricities of those distinct voices, yet Weylyn remains the most captivating character. Big-hearted and good-natured, he's too honest to question lies and wanders in forests with a dreamy smile. But beneath his upbeat facade, he blames himself for natural disasters and will suddenly vanish to protect loved ones. This tale feels comfortable and familiar, imitating Lewis Carroll's casual, everyday description of magic and starring a sympathetic, mature boy with Peter Pan-like abilities. Original and imaginative, especially in its multifaceted exploration of one extraordinary person, Lang's novel is a lovely and fascinating feat of magical realism.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)

September 15, 2017

Lang's fable-like first novel, chock-full of whimsical events, is narrated by the individuals acquainted with Weylyn Grey, a fellow gifted with the understanding of the natural world. Orphaned, somehow raised by wolves, Weylyn has developed a particular affinity with both the weather and earth; as a young boy, he encounters Mary, enchanted with his lupine existence, who joins him for a brief time. Weylyn's gifts multiply as he matures on his hopscotch journey across America. While he baffles and astonishes many, overall, his innate warmth and goodness draw people to him. Whether halting a tornado, gathering phosphorescent honey, or communing with wild animals, he demonstrates a fine ability to introduce wonder into everyday life. VERDICT Although a bit long-winded, this enchanting title mixes magical realism with romance, humor, and adventure, delighting readers who enjoy strong fantasy populated with quirky characters and events. [See Prepub Alert, 5/22/17.]--Andrea Tarr, Corona P.L., CA

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 15, 2017

Raised by wolves and companion to a wicked horned pig named Merlin, Weylyn Grey isn't your average guy. But his special powers show themselves when he stops a tornado in its tracks on Christmas Day in Oklahoma. The problem: he can't control these forces or even predict when they will appear, and they wreak havoc with his life and love.

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.