I read Paper Butterflies by Lisa Heathfield last year and it simply blew me away. Given this I couldn't wait to read Flight of a Starling. This author knows how to turn the simple into the extraordinary. The language is engaging, unusual and evocative, you won't find any padding or filler here. I raced through this book and the end came far to quickly. The characters are engaging and real, and the view of circus life was a nice touch. I read the last few chapters of this book in a state of appalled tension. I knew the ending would be devastating and beautiful in equal measure, and whilst I knew what was coming the reality of it made me shift in my seat and read through partially closed eyes. Then suddenly alongside the sadness comes the hope - this really is great writing. Recommended to anyone who enjoys YA books - it's great.