Book Review: The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge

THE ASSASSINATION OF BRANGWAIN SPURGE by M. T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin explores the endless battle between elf and goblin kingdoms.

Told through a combination of illustrated sequences, letters, and short narratives, this unusual fantasy novel follows an elfin historian on his quest to survive in goblin territory. Packed with non-stop action, bizarre situations, and cultural misunderstandings, this novel is a unique combination of political satire and fantasy adventure.

Librarians will find readers among young adult readers who enjoy dark fantasy and social commentary. The quirky characters and witty humor will strike a cord with teens who may not understand all the underlying themes, but who will enjoy the outlandish situations. Recommend it for youth who enjoy a balance of witty, thought-provoking themes and goofy fantasy.

Published by Candlewick Press on September 25, 2018. ACR courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review; The Hazel Wood

THE HAZEL WOOD by Melissa Albert is a dark fantasy suspense for young adults.

Alice and her mother are unlucky in life and move frequently. When her mother disappears, Alice must immerse herself in the dark world of her recently dead grandmother’s supernatural world. Filled with strong and sometimes abrasive female characters and lots of twists, Alice along with her acquaintance Ellery must visit the creepy Hazel Wood estate in search of answers.

Librarians will find a following for this book among teens who enjoy fairy tale fantasy, contemporary mysteries, and dark thrillers. Fans of Alice in Wonderful and teens who enjoy literature will enjoy discussing the many literary connections.

Published by Flatiron, an imprint of Macmillan on January 30, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Night Gardener

What’s your Newbery prediction? THE NIGHT GARDENER by Jonathan Auxier is an eerie dark fantasy sure to make the short-list.

In the vein of horror classics by authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Washington Irving, two Irish orphans are drawn to a spooky house in the woods surrounded by an even creepier tree. As readers become immersed in the story, they’re struck with a foreboding feeling that only an extraordinary author such as Auxier can conceive. The author’s vivid descriptions, fast-paced writing style, and compelling themes make this an unforgettable tale.

Divided into three sections named arrivals, pursuits, and departures, readers are taken on an exciting journey with a satisfying conclusion that keeps the door open for another adventure.

Teacher librarians will find this book perfect for discussions about the role of truth, lies, wishes, and the nature of storytelling. It’s also a great way to introduce youth to gothic tales from the 19th century.

Like Holly Black’s Doll Bones and Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book and Coraline, dark fantasy for the middle grades seems to be increasingly popular.

Many youth start their passion for horror fiction with works by R. L. Stine. Use THE NIGHT GARDENER to provide a transition to more sophisticated themes and storylines.

To learn more about this popular new author, check out his website at http://www.thescop.com/.