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Books matching: coming of age quest

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  1. #1

    Half-Witch by John Schoffstall
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    'Half-Witch' by author John Schoffstall is a whimsical fantasy tale that follows the adventures of two young heroines, Lizbet and Strix, as they embark on a journey filled with magic, friendship, and overcoming adversity. Set in a fantastical world with elements of Christianity and radical theology, the story weaves together themes of hope, friendship, and the power of belief. Lizbet and Strix encounter an array of fantastical creatures and challenges, from goblins and demons to a giant maggot with a human face, all while navigating theological elements with humor and skepticism. The narrative is filled with imaginative twists, clever references, and a blend of dark and uplifting tones that keep readers enthralled from cover to cover.

    Clinging to the back of Gerhard’s horse, they rode for their lives. An angry mob chased them. Lizbet, riding behind Gerhard and gripping his coat in her fists, risked a glimpse backward. Among the cro...

  2. #2

    Doll Bones by Holly Black
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    "Doll Bones" by Holly Black is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of three friends, Zach, Poppy, and Alice, who embark on a quest to return a bone china doll, inhabited by the spirit of a murdered girl, to her grave. As the trio faces personal changes and challenges in middle school, the doll's haunting pushes them to confront their fears and strengthen their friendship. Blending elements of suspense, adventure, and imagination, the book navigates themes of growing up, friendship, and the power of storytelling, offering a spooky yet heartwarming tale for young readers.

    The narrative unfolds as Zach, Poppy, and Alice navigate the complexities of their evolving friendship while delving into a world of make-believe games and eerie encounters. Through a mix of whimsical storytelling and spooky twists, the trio's journey to lay the doll to rest leads them on a path of self-discovery, where reality and imagination intertwine. With themes of friendship dynamics, the transition to adulthood, and the importance of play, "Doll Bones" captivates readers with its blend of suspense, adventure, and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for middle-grade audiences.

    POPPY SET DOWN ONE OF THE MERMAID DOLLS CLOSE to the stretch of asphalt road that represented the Blackest Sea. They were old—bought from Goodwill—with big shiny heads, different-colored tails, and fr...

  3. #3

    Who Fears Death - Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor
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    'Who Fears Death' by Nnedi Okorafor follows the story of Onyesonwu, a young woman born as a result of rape in a world divided by tribal violence and prejudice. Onye, as she is called, possesses powerful magical abilities and embarks on a quest to challenge the injustices of her world and rewrite the future. The narrative is a blend of dystopian fantasy and traditional folk tale, tackling themes of violence, love, acceptance, and empowerment, all rooted in African traditions and mythology.

    The writing style of 'Who Fears Death' is described as powerful and compelling, drawing readers in with vivid imagery and strong character development. The novel explores dark and uncomfortable themes such as sexual violence, genocide, and discrimination, while also offering elements of magic, mysticism, and hope. The story is praised for its unique blend of genres and its ability to address complex issues with depth and sensitivity.

    MY LIFE FELL APART WHEN I WAS SIXTEEN. Papa died. He had such a strong heart, yet he died. Was it the heat and smoke from his blacksmithing shop? It’s true that nothing could take him from his work, h...

  4. #4
    Sabriel
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    Book 1 in the series:Abhorsen

    Sabriel - Abhorsen by Garth Nix
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    Sabriel follows the journey of a young woman who unexpectedly inherits her father's title as Abhorsen, a powerful necromancer, and embarks on a quest that takes her across the wall into another world. The book delves into a dark and magical Old Kingdom where Sabriel must rescue her father from the Land of the Dead while battling against evil forces trying to destroy the balance of the realm. The narrative weaves intricate world-building, necromancy, and a band of loyal companions, creating a suspenseful and engaging story filled with vivid descriptions of the magical realm and its inhabitants.

    The writing style of Sabriel is praised for its dark and cold atmosphere, with the protagonist navigating through desperate situations in the Old Kingdom and Death itself. The book introduces a unique magical system involving bells and a necromancer's duty to lay the dead to rest, all while exploring themes of family legacy, self-discovery, and the struggle between good and evil in a fantasy setting that captivates readers with its originality and depth.

    THE RABBIT HAD been run over minutes before. Its pink eyes were glazed and blood stained its clean white fur. Unnaturally clean fur, for it had just escaped from a bath. It still smelt faintly of lave...

  5. #5
    Dragon Haven
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    Book 2 in the series:Rain Wild Chronicles

    Dragon Haven - Rain Wild Chronicles by Robin Hobb
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    In the book 'Dragon Haven' by Robin Hobb, readers continue to follow the journey of underdeveloped dragons and their Rain Wilds marked keepers as they venture upriver in search of the fabled Elderlings city of Kelsingra. The story is focused on the personal interactions and development of both the humans and the dragons, portraying a coming-of-age theme amidst thrilling adventures, tragedies, and conflicts. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling style, character-driven plot, and the sense of uncertainty surrounding the characters' trek to an unknown destination.

    'Dragon Haven' is described as a sequel that expands on the world-building introduced in the first book, 'Dragon Keeper,' and delves deeper into the relationships between characters while gradually unraveling the larger puzzle. The narrative is deliberate and slow-paced, emphasizing the growth of characters and relationships rather than focusing solely on action, creating a captivating and immersive reading experience that explores themes of agency, sexuality, and personal growth within a fantasy setting.

    The sucking gray mud pulled at her boots and slowed her down. Alise watched Leftrin walking away from her toward the huddled dragon keepers as she struggled to break free of the earth’s grip and go af...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rain Wild Chronicles )

  6. #6
    Marlfox
    Book 11 in the series:Redwall

    Marlfox - Redwall by Brian Jacques
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    'Marlfox' in the Redwall series by Brian Jacques follows the usual formula of the series with a new set of villains, the Marlfoxes, threatening Redwall Abbey. The plot involves multiple storylines converging at the concluding Abbey feast, featuring characters like the High Queen Slith, the Marlfoxes, and young Abbey dwellers on a quest to rescue the stolen Redwall tapestry. is described as having strong visual imagery, lovable characters, brilliant humor, and an enchanting storyline that keeps readers hooked with its mix of adventure, friendship, and bravery.

    Eternally serene, the moon ruled over star-strewn vaults of cloudless sable night, like a round shield of flecked amber, casting pale light to the earth below. Vagrant breezes from the distant sea dri...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Redwall )

  7. #7

    The Girl of Ink and Stars by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
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    "The Girl of Ink and Stars" by Kiran Millwood Hargrave is a story about Isabella, a young girl on the island of Joya, where her father's skill as a cartographer has become a lost art due to a tyrant's invasion. When Isabella's best friend Lupe disappears into the Forgotten Territories, Isabella, equipped with her father's maps and star knowledge, leads a search party to rescue her. The book combines elements of fantasy, history, and friendship, creating a fresh and intriguing tale set in a beautifully described world. The author's poetic writing style brings the island and its inhabitants to life, drawing readers into a story of bravery, resilience, and the power of friendship.

    They say the day the Governor arrived, the ravens did too. All the smaller birds flew backwards into the sea, and that is why there are no songbirds on Joya. Only huge, ragged ravens. I’d watch them p...

  8. #8

    A Passage to Shambhala - The Explorers Guild by Jon Baird
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    Set during WWI, 'A Passage to Shambhala' in 'The Explorers Guild' series by Jon Baird and Kevin Costner is a tale of a search for the fabled city of Shambhala, full of intrigue, desertion, exotic locales, and encounters with the strange and mystifying. The book is presented in the language of the time, evoking Kipling and H. G. Wells. The addition of a graphic novel aspect adds depth to the story, immersing the reader in the atmosphere of the plot and enhancing the overall experience.


  9. #9

    The Lightning Thief - Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
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    In "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan, readers follow the adventures of Percy Jackson, a demigod who discovers his true identity as the son of Poseidon. Along with his friends Grover and Annabeth, Percy navigates a world filled with Greek mythology, monsters, and gods. The book combines humor, action, and a coming-of-age journey as Percy embarks on a quest to prevent a war between Zeus and Poseidon, ultimately leading to a heartwarming bond of friendship and self-discovery.

    The storyline of "The Lightning Thief" is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with adventure, making it a thrilling read for both children and adults. Riordan's writing style seamlessly weaves Greek myths into a modern setting, introducing readers to a world where gods, monsters, and demigods coexist. Through Percy's dyslexia, ADHD, and heroic journey, the book explores themes of identity, friendship, and the power of teamwork in the face of perilous challenges.

    But if you recognize yourself in these pages—if you feel something stirring inside—stop reading immediately. You might be one of us. And once you know that, it’s only a matter of time before they sens...

  10. #10
    Redwall
    Book 1 in the series:Redwall

    Redwall - Redwall by Brian Jacques
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    Redwall by Brian Jacques is a classic children's fantasy novel that follows the adventures of Matthias, a young mouse living in Redwall Abbey. When the peaceful life of the abbey is threatened by the evil rat Cluny the Scourge, Matthias must rise up to become a hero and lead the fight against the forces of darkness. The story is a coming-of-age tale filled with themes of courage, friendship, and good triumphing over evil, set in a richly detailed world inhabited by anthropomorphic woodland creatures.

    The plot unfolds with Matthias discovering his true destiny as a warrior and embarking on a quest to save Redwall Abbey from Cluny's tyranny. The writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions of characters and settings, creating an immersive fantasy world where readers of all ages can get lost in the epic battle between good and evil.

    MATTHIAS CUT A comical little figure as he wobbled his way along the cloisters, with his large sandals flip-flopping and his tail peeping from beneath the baggy folds of an over-sized novice’s habit. ...

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