Gale's Reviews > At the Back of the North Wind

GOD’S BABY


This children's classic would definitely be rejected by most modern kids--in fact, I had to force myself through the first third of the book, until the plot became more believable. Page after page of nonsense poetry and absurd adult-child conversations put me off. The Human story itself is pretty good: a frail, sickly, angelic boy of 7, son of a poor coachman in 19th century London, has the unique ability to charm those he meets, to touch the lives of children and adults alike, changing them for the better. Some people consider him mentally unsound, but his heart is pure. Like Little Lord Fauntleroy, he seems too good to be true. Or to survive the emotional storms of Life.

The book opens with the Fantasy element--where Diamond meets the mysterious lady whom he comes to love and trust completely: North Wind. This strange, nocturnal companion assumes many sizes and guises; she blows to sweep away Life's mess as well as to sink ships (obeying orders from an unnamed authority.) The quaint literary style, as well as outdated vocabulary, present a challenge for today's young readers. Diamond's philosophy of Life was changed ever since his return from his mystical visit to the Back of the North Wind. One must read this book to posit other names for that special place and his beloved, long-haired lady. A curious mixture of plot and pseudo-religious themes. Recommended for 19th century students of children's literature.

(Januray 15, 2012. I welcome dialogue with teachers.)