In Katsa’s world, people with Graces, or extraordinary skills, are feared and sometimes exploited. They are distinguished by their dual colored eyes. Unfortunately for Katsa, she has a killing Grace, and has been used by her uncle to do his bidding since she was eight years old and accidentally murdered a man with her bare hands. When Katsa seeks to rescue the father of the King of Liend, she stumbles upon a mystery and on Po, a man who can fight almost as well as she. Katsa decides to defy her uncle the king and set off to solve the mystery, the curious Po at her side.
I love fairy tales, especially fairy tales expanded into novels. While this is a completely new story, it feels very much like a fairy tale. It is a once upon a time fantasy with a darker edge in that Katsa’s Grace is so violent. The closest I can compare it to in style is Robin McKinley, who I recently discovered and loved. Thus it’s not at all a surprise that I really enjoyed this book too.
For Katsa, this is completely a coming-of-age story. She is disgusted with herself, with her uncle, and with the world. She knows so little about both her Grace and the wider world, though, that even as a teenager she essentially goes on a journey of self-discovery. She realizes how much she herself is a product of the kingdom in which she grew up and takes steps to become a strong, confident woman. Add in a little bit of budding, confusing romance and Cashore has the perfect combination for a teenage girl. Although I enjoyed the adventure that Katsa went on, I appreciated her believable and steady character growth much more.
Cashore’s pseudo-medieval world is also very well considered. The kingdoms that we see are distinct and interesting, especially Po’s, and the idea of Graces is beautifully developed. It’s fascinating that even people with Graces shy away from others who have them, because no one knows what particular skill might be lurking behind blue and brown eyes. Everything feels organic and natural and it’s very easy to lose yourself in this world.
Graceling is a compelling fantasy set in a fairy tale medieval world. Katsa is one of the best female characters I’ve come across in YA, with strengths and vulnerabilities in equal measure, and her adventure had me spellbound. Well worth a read for both young and regular adults.
I’ve got this on my pile to read and people all over Twitter and the blogosphere keep raving about the book. I’ve got to bump it up and get to it! Glad you enjoyed
.-= Michelle´s last blog ..Slumber Party Read-a-Thon Style =-.
I’m glad you liked it. I couldn’t really fall in love with it but I did like Katsa!
.-= Pam´s last blog ..Teaser Tuesday: Spooky Reading Edition =-.
Hmm… I didn’t like this book. I saw it’s high points but I was inclined against it as I read because it was aimed for younger kids (10-12 by Scholastic). The bad guy is a little too much for kids that age group I feel.
That’s interesting, Keira, because it was shelved in the teenage section of my library, so I assumed it was older. I can see how it would be too much for 10-12, so I know what you mean. It’s funny how expectations change things.
Wow! That’s quite a review.
This one never sounded like one I’d like, but now I’m thinking I should give it a chance!
.-= Eva´s last blog ..Library Loot: October 14-20, 2009 =-.
I don’t generally read fantasy but I think I will make an exception for this book. So far, I’ve only seen stellar reviews for it.
.-= Stephanie´s last blog ..Waiting on Wednesday =-.
My coworker recently read this and really liked it. If it hadn’t been for Twilight, I don’t think she would have “discovered” YA fantasy novels.
.-= Literary Feline´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday: Growing Up =-.
I really liked this one too.
.-= Alyce´s last blog ..A Northern Light (Audiobook) – Review =-.
I really liked this book. I agree on the strong female character. We need more like that!
.-= Kailana´s last blog ..The Love We Share Without Knowing by Christopher Barzak =-.
I don’t usually read YA, but I love fantasy, so I may have to give this one a try.
I love strong female characters, especially in YA. This book sounds like it might appeal to males too and I’d love to see young men reading about strong females!
.-= Kathy´s last blog ..Wondrous Words Wednesday =-.
Wow! Sounds amazing! In fact, I don’t think I have read a negative review of this one; I’m glad you enjoyed it too. I definitely love female characters with “strengths and vulnerabilities in equal measure”. Maybe I’ll move it up the TBR pile!
.-= Kay´s last blog ..Review : Never Cry Werewolf =-.
I have heard of this book, but knew very little about it before reading your review. It sounds like something I would really like, and I’m pretty sure my daughter would like it too. Great review, it sounds like a really intriguing and readable book. I see that she also has another book out called Fire. Have you read that one as well?
This book sounds VERY cool. I’m happy I have it on my TBR shelf.
.-= heidenkind´s last blog ..Allegory of Love & The Quality of Mercy =-.
Sounds like a great read! This one’s going on the TBR list.
.-= Amy´s last blog ..Excalibur =-.
I HAVE to read this! I’d heard lots of good things about it, but never that it had the feel of a fairy tale. Needless to say, that makes me want to read it even more
.-= Nymeth´s last blog ..Ash by Malinda Lo =-.
I downloaded this from the library (or maybe I got the eBook? — it was a download in any case, and you don’t really care so I’ll shut up). I had a feeling this would be perfect for me. Your description hit so many of my sure-thing hooks: coming of age, medieval, fantasy, well-developed worlds, great female character…..
.-= Beth F´s last blog ..Thursday Tea: An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon =-.
Oh! i have read just too many good reviews.. I ave it already on my wish list! Like Beth said it has too many keywords that would make me want to read it…coming of age, medieval, fantasy, well-developed worlds, great female character…..
.-= Veens´s last blog ..Hooked right NOW to… =-.
Hurrah! I’m so happy you liked it!! Kristin Cashore is such a great writer. I hope you will continue on and read Fire. She definitely did NOT have a sophomore slump; it’s just as good. In fact, I think I liked Fire a littletinybit better.
Now that I’ve read the book, I have a better feel for your review. I wish I had kept the fairy tale aspect in mind. I kept thinking fantasy and thus wanted more surprise, more history, more something. I liked the characters a lot, but the book lacked something for me. When I put it in the fairly tale realm, I think I like the novel better.
.-= Beth F´s last blog ..Review: Graceling by Kristin Cashore =-.