‘The fantasy book of the year’ — Eoin Colfer

How many words do you need to survive? “Love”, “hope”, “freedom” – in the dystopian future of Ark, after climate change disaster, these words are being banned. One girl takes stand against this loss of language – she is the Wordsmith.

Winner of a White Raven Award from the International Youth Library and shortlisted for the Children’s Books Ireland Book of the Year, The Wordsmith is a beautiful and gripping dystopian story of how words make us who we are.

‘This book targets the dangers of global warming and the power of communication, love and expression.’ — The Guardian

‘A novel that truly stands apart for its originality and relevance.’ — The Irish Times

‘Forde’s exploration of language as both weapon and saviour is a noble one, and environmental undertones bolster its power. Pair with Patrick Ness’s The Knife of Never Letting Go.’ —Booklist

‘A tremendous pageturner; I hope this won’t be the last we hear of Letta, a brave and spirited heroine.’ — School Library Association