Chapter 1

Summary

• The chapter sets the scene in a magical, invisible place in the woodlands that can be accessed by those "born knowing."
• The quote by Hazel Mersey Linden from 1939 suggests a mystical, otherworldly setting.
• In October 1940, in Binsey, Oxfordshire, six-year-old Flora Lea Linden wakes up alone on a red blanket by the River Thames.
• The river is described as powerful and tumultuous, contrasting with the peacefulness of the woodland and the devastation in London due to bombings.
• Although alone, Flora feels secure because her sister Hazel has told her that the woodlands are their safe place meant just for them.
• Flora is drawn to the river despite Hazel's warnings not to engage with it, as it could prevent her return to her family.
• Flora's sister Hazel is too busy to see the magic in the world and no longer visits Whisperwood, leading Flora to explore alone.
• The river, teeming with life and movement, is a source of fascination for Flora and represents forbidden knowledge, similar to the biblical apple.
• Flora ignores a voice in the woods, feeling a strong pull towards the river, and decides to pretend to be a bunny as her sister doesn't want to play such games anymore.
• Flora slips and falls close to the river's edge while trying to retrieve her stuffed teddy, Berry, experiencing excitement and the thrill of adventure.
• Despite the danger, Flora reassures herself with Hazel's past assertion that they are always safe in Whisperwood.