Title: Graceling
Author: Kristin Cashore
Summary: In Katsa’s world, some people are born graced – they possess a skill or ability that far surpasses that of an ordinary person. A Graceling might be able to swim, sew, cook, or read minds. Katsa, a lady of the Middluns, has what might be the most terrifying: A killing Grace. Her king, Randa, sends her to dole out brutal punishment to those who defy him, and almost everyone across the seven kingdoms shudder when they hear her name.
While on a mission to rescue a kidnapped prince, Katsa meets Po, another royal Graceling with a secret to protect. When they set off together to discover the motive behind the kidnapping, each will discover the true nature of their abilities, and learn that there are even more fearsome Graces than killing. The action never lets up in this terrific debut with enough heart and soul to please readers who might usually avoid fantasy stories.
Who will like this book?: Fans of fantasy adventures and quest stories – even guys. Keep an eye out for the prequel and sequel, coming soon.
If you like this, try this: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. The Giver by Lois Lowry. For something lighter, The Unnameables by Ellen Booraem.
Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian