Sometimes I like to read younger books, not just because I have a 9-year-old, but also because these genres are always trying new things. And for a middle grade book, this one is fun and exciting, even if it’s not as intense as it would be if written for an older audience.
This fantasy is set on Emblem Island, where everyone is born with a mark etched in their skin identifying how they will live, and they have a lifeline that tells them how long they have. Tor, age 12, was born with a leadership emblem, but wants nothing more than to be a water breather. He makes a wish, and not only does his emblem disappear, but a curse appears in its place, which he then passes to his friends. The only chance he has is to find the Night Witch and convince her to let him live. His two friends, Engle and Melda, go with him on this quest to try to save themselves.
I really liked how this book was divided into chapters following the ancient book, The Book of Cuentos, which the children assumed was a fable about the Night Witch, but proves truer and truer as they go on. If this book was written for an older audience, I’d expect there to be more detail and an elevated level of risk and excitement to each piece of the trio’s adventure, but I think the shorter chapters and easier escapes are more forgivable for this age group.
I also liked the three main characters and how this book wasn’t explicitly a “boy” book or a “girl” book but seemed like one that could easily be enjoyed by both while still identifying with one of the main characters. And I liked the emphasis on the message of supporting your friends.
One thing I feel was missing — although this is a small thing — is a visual of the map the characters follow. It would be a neat addition to the front matter of the book.
I will definitely be sharing this one with my son, and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series for myself, which hopefully won’t be too far in the future.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Sourcebooks Early Readers in exchange for my honest review. It has not influenced my opinion.