Waiting for the Wind (Rhubarb Lemonade)

Oskar Kroon

Vinga dreams of the sea. She’s going to be a sailor when she grows up, sailing to distant harbors and maybe save a shipwrecked or two. At home in town, mom is sad and dad has left for good. But finally it’s summer with granddad on the island and everything else feels distant, granddad has given Vinga an old gig that she is going to make seaworthy. On the island everything is as usual, but at the same time not really. The heat vibrates during the day, and suddenly a girl with a black hat starts appearing where Vinga has her gig. Her name is Ruth. The only thing they seem to have in common is their age and that they are on the island for the summer. But it turns out to be much more.

Waiting for the Wind is a gripping story for middle grade readers about an unsual summer when childhood comes to an end. With much empathy and heart, Oscar Kroon writes about how Vinga learns to hold her course during the storm of farewells, newfound friendship and a stranded whale.

Press voices

“This coming-of-age story is beautifully observed.” The Daily Express, UK

“It’s a such a joy that Waiting for the Wind receives the August Prize, because this is how the really good children’s books are told: carefully and with easy steps, where the everyday events have a greater meaning and the child exists as part of a larger world. Swedish picture and young adult books have long held a high level, but here Oskar Kroon shows that even middle-grade titles can reach beyond what is usual.” Lotta Olsson, Dagens Nyheter

“Kroon’s linguistic values, empathy, timing, eye for depiction and supporting characters make the book as delightful as a rowboat made with love for every element of the craft.” Daniel Sjölin

“A beautiful, existential story about growth and change.” Dagens Nyheter

“Vänta på vind is a seamless children’s book.” Josefin Jansson, JP

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