In a world where magic shimmers just beyond the edge of reality, young Mig McArthur lives a lonely life, overshadowed by her cruel Cousin Belinda. But when a mysterious bird appears at her window one misty morning, calling her name, everything changes. Led by the peculiar yet charming Dawnchild-a radiant girl from a land of enchantment-Mig embarks on a thrilling adventure far beyond the confines of her dreary home.
Journeying to the mystical Dawnland, Mig encounters whimsical creatures, cunning foes, and the magical Dawnchildren, all while discovering courage, friendship, and the extraordinary beauty within the unseen world. As enemies lurk and ancient powers stir, Mig must summon her strength to escape the clutches of her jealous cousin and find happiness in a land where dreams come to life.
Publication Date: Originally published in 1926 (republished in 2024)
Illustrations: Original artwork by Beryl Irving included
Themes: Magic, friendship, self-discovery, adventure
Recommended Age: 8–12 years
Pages: 194
Alix Robinson
I remember reading a book called The Dawnchild when I was a child (about late 1940s) and simply loving it. I remember it as being a little scary and my mother could not understand how I could enjoy it. The book got lost or probably sent to a jumble sale and ever since I have been trying to trace a copy. As I could not remember the name of the author I have tried several times to trace it through the internet, without luck – until now and believe this may be the same book? Mine was a hardback maroon cover. I believe there was someone called Belinda in it. It was about a woman who was unkind to a little girl, but she got her come-uppance in the end.
Vivian French
My favorite books? One was a book that belonged to my mother. It was published in the 1920s, and it was called The Dawn Child, by Beryl Irving, and it was a truly amazing fantasy story.
Annabel
This is the best fairy story ever written. I love it, it’s an exciting adventure about a little girl’s journey to find the happiness she longs for. It’s unputdownable, I read it over and over when I was a child (and still read it occasionally now!) it’s a must have for all little girls!
Fiona Lander
You are probably fed up of this request, but I am desperate to find a copy of your mother’s fabulous book The Dawnchild. My Grandmother bought a copy in the late Twenties and it has been in our family ever since. Each generation of mother and daughter has shared the trials and joys of Mig and all the other enchanting characters. I can remember every last one and see every exquisite illustration in my minds’ eye. Whilst moving, our most treasured copy was lost some while ago and I have been searching for another copy ever since. My daughter (now twenty-six) is so sad that she may not be able to continue passing on this wonderful tale to her children (when she has them!) and whilst she and I can remember the details and tell the story, we cannot replicate your mother’s wonderful prose.
Annie (verified owner) –
The Dawnchild is sheer magic from the first word to the last. My Mum was given this book as a child and lent it to me as a poorly child. I lost myself in its wonderful tale of Mignonette and The Dawnchild. Every page hums with magic, humour and excitement, with a story that just whips along.
My Dad searched high and low for years, hoping to find another copy of my very own (years before the internet). However, he found one in 1990 and saved it for me, to give at Christmas. Sadly, he died before that, so it was left for my Mum to gift it to me. I can’t tell you how overjoyed I am to have The Dawnchild by Beryl Irving always at my side
The illustrations are also beautiful.