Thank you to NetGalley and Tordotcom for letting me read an e-ARC of Adrift in Currents Clean and Clear by Seanan McGuire! The latest installment in the Wayward Children series releases January 7, 2025. While there’s no requirement to read the previous novellas (or read them in release order), I find this series is best enjoyed that way. A novella series, however, is quickly enjoyed - so get on it!

Readers follow Nadya’s story from the beginning. Born in Russia without one arm and surrendered to an orphanage, adopted by religious American parents and taken from her home country, raised to set aside her mother tongue and history, and eventually tumbling into one of the doors that leads her to a watery world beneath the pond where her beloved turtle companions roam. As always, the door only opens and consumes the child who is sure that they will leave nothing important behind in their own world. And, though she may not know it at first, she becomes sure that Belyrreka is a better place for her than her own world. She is quickly adopted by someone who comes from America (another drowned girl), finds a lifelong turtle companion, and lives out her life in a world that accepts her for the whole person that she’s always been.

While this isn’t my favorite installment (I wish it had been slightly longer – the woe of novellas), it’s still enjoyable and quick. I wanted to spend more time with Nadya and her friends in Belyrreka. As always, McGuire does an excellent job at forging stories that challenge readers’ preconceived notions about topics like grief, love, family, disability, and mental health. For a story about a child under 10, this packs a punch for adult audiences. If you’re looking for a quick read to kickstart your 2025 reading challenge, I strongly suggest this book (and series)! I can’t wait to see what comes next for our Wayward Children.