CCBC booklist are compiled from books we have recommended in various editions of CCBC Choices. Most of these booklists are updated annually. You can also select books from one or more booklists to create a custom list, which can also include additional books from the CCBC-Recommended Book Search.
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Unraveller
CCBC Review:
This complex, original fantasy moves beyond the simplistic duality of right versus wrong as it offers a nuanced exploration of human behavior. Fifteen-year-old Kellen can unravel curses and is regularly hired to do so. Nettle has been his traveling companion ever since Kellen unravelled the curse that transformed her into a heron. When hot-tempered Kellen offends a wealthy client, landing them both in jail, a man named Gall offers to arrange their release before engaging them to work for an anonymous patron. Gall and his marsh horse (a carnivorous creature that bonds with the human who voluntarily gives it one of their eyes) will protect Kellen and Nettle while they fulfill unravelling jobs requested by their new employer. Unravelling a curse isn’t complicated if all cursers are inherently evil, as is commonly believed. But as Kellen and Nettle work through their assigned tasks, it becomes increasingly clear nothing is that simple: mistakes, secrets, faults, and complex feelings motivated the cursers. Adding to their troubles is the realization that someone—or something—is coming after Kellen. Mounting tension and an accelerating plot pace peppered with one close call after another lead to a dramatic climactic scene where betrayal and the abuse of power is defeated by loyalty, love, and the sincere desire to do good. ©2023 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
CCBC Age Recommendation: Age 12 and older
Age Range:
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Novel
Subjects:
Action/Adventure
Empathy and Compassion
Ethical/Moral Choices
Fantasy
Magic
Suspense
Trust
On CCBC Booklist:
Fantastic Fiction: Great Fantasy Books for Ages 11 to 17
Publishers:
Abrams, Amulet
Publish Year: 2023
Pages: 423
ISBN: 9781419759314
CCBC Location: Fiction, Hardinge
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our Recommended Book Search includes access to CCBC-recommended titles based on subject headings created by our staff.
Please send questions or comments about CCBC booklists to ccbcinfo@education.wisc.edu.