It follows the quest of twins Kestrel and Bowman Hath, and their acquaintance Mumpo to restore the "Voice of the Wind Singer" to their city and bring happiness to their cruel society.

[2] The book begins in the walled city of Aramanth, an extreme meritocracy where endless exams and ratings are the only way to move forward to improved life stations; to be unsuccessful in this is seen as a great source of shame.

The old legend Emperor tells Kestrel of the need to rid Aramanth of the influence of the evil Morah and return the voice to the mysterious Wind Singer that stands in the city arena.

Using an archaic map given to her by the Emperor she sets off, joined by her twin brother Bowman and their brave but pitiful new friend Mumpo, who has an unshakeable affection for Kestrel.

Pursued by the beautiful, evil and unstoppable Zars, the children race back to Aramanth, arriving just in time to return the Wind Singer's voice.