From the very first sentence this book completely captured my attention. I picked this up at the library, sat down and did not move until I had finished.

The writing was so lyrical, witty and intelligent I fell in love with this world that Barker was building. I loved how the main character found beauty in what is generally considered ugly; snakes, mushrooms, moors, Latin and the Gothic. 

I wish I could say more, I really do. I just have so much to say I cannot get anything out in words! This was just utterly fantastic. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who's looking for a slightly more alternative bildungsroman!