Review: The Zanna Function

The Zanna Function by Daniel Wheatley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received a Digital Review Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Zanna Function is an interesting melding of science and fantasy set in a magical school. Zanna Mayfield, who lives with her grandfather, Pops, is caught off guard by an invitation to attend St. Pommeroy's School for Gifted Children. Without wanting to spoil some of the fun for the reader, after a rough start, Zanna begins her study of mathematics, chemistry, physics and self functions. These areas of study represent the modern version of the four historic subjects at St. Pommeroy, inscribed in stone at the entrance: Mathema, Al-kimia, Physis, and Episteme. The subjects are studied according to the idea of functions- both functionality and mathematic functions describing that functionality. Over the course of the first year, students hone their interests and decide upon a field of study. (Sort of like deciding to read physics at university, except these are high school kids.)

From Od Magic to Harry Potter to Miss Peregrine, there are certainly plenty of magical schools in fantasy out there, especially for middle-grade readers. Wheatley has managed to create a unique world and the depth of my love for a book with many female characters studying and excelling in STEM field cannot be overestimated!

Although I often felt like the main characters of the story seemed younger than high school age children, the book still works well as a whole. I'm still not sure whether this was intended as a standalone (there is a good ending point here, that leaves room for sequels) or the start of a series. As a standalone, this is a book likely to entertain middle-grade students, especially girls who are looking for a sort of female version of Harry Potter who gets to be just as bright as Hermione.


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