It's the 1930s And Johnny is different from other boys. He was born with strange growths on his back and everyone is frightened of him. When his mother dies, he ends up in a travelling 'freak show' where people pay to see 'the boy with wings'. Growing up with a bunch of misfits, he embarks on a journey of love and self-acceptance, deciding whether to hide himself from the world or come to terms with who he is.

This is a unique coming-of-age story set in the tumultuous depression-era, telling the story of a tormented young boy longing for connection and acceptance. It's a wonderfully told tale which deals with important themes of racism, finding meaning in our lives, what it means to be different from everyone else and self-acceptance. A beautiful read that leaves a lasting impression.

Thank you to NetGalley for my opportunity to read and review this wonderful book

As a reader who is entranced by stories that get deeply into their characters, I found Boy With Wings to be a profoundly interesting and important read. Born prior to the Great Depression, in the American South, to a single mother , Johnny Cruel, who has a very unusual physical aberration , finds himself struggling to achieve a place in an uncaring world. After his mother’s death he is taken in by former slaves who live in a turpentine camp. With this caring snd compassionate group he finds acceptance and love. When the surrounding white and racist community discovers a white boy living amongst blacks, Johnny is removed and eventually sold to a circus sideshow of fellow freaks where he forges relationships with a host of societal misfits as well as the beautiful young daughter of the owner of the troupe.

This coming of age story is historical fiction at its best. The writing is passionate and engaging as the author dares to address society’s cruel dismissal and disregard of anyone who is different. An undercurrent of racial discrimination flows hand in hand with the plight of the disabled, both being visible differences to those who make and uphold the rules that drive American society.

I loved this book. Kudos to Mark Mustian for daring to address a topic we need to think about with pathos and sensitivity. Five bright stars for a magnificent read. Many thanks to NetGalley and Koehler publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. The book was published on March 15, 2025. Read it!