Books Like...

'Gullstruck Island' by Frances Hardinge is a fantasy novel set in a world where individuals known as the Lost have the ability to send their senses out of their bodies. The story follows sisters Arilou and Hathin as they navigate a complex society reliant on the Lost for communication and information. When a series of mysterious deaths occur, Hathin is forced on a quest for vengeance that delves into themes of colonialism, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Frances Hardinge's writing style in 'Gullstruck Island' is praised for its imaginative world-building, intricate character development, and engaging plot. Readers are drawn into a richly detailed world filled with unique concepts like astral projection, complex societal structures, and moral dilemmas. The story unfolds with a mix of mystery, adventure, and social commentary, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

'Fly by Night' by Frances Hardinge is a captivating fantasy novel set in The Realm, a world where books and letters are banned. The story follows Mosca Mye, a young girl with a forbidden talent for reading, who embarks on a dangerous adventure with Eponymous Clent, a dubious character she saves from trouble. Together, they navigate through political intrigue, illegal activities, and encounters with unique characters in a world rich with its own geography and religions. The writing style of the book is described as dense with rich language, requiring close attention to fully appreciate the intricate plot and imaginative world-building.

Mosca's journey from a controlled life to becoming a fugitive and key player in complex schemes unfolds in a mix of drama, humor, and surprising twists. The narrative weaves together themes of power, knowledge, and the love of words, all set against a backdrop of a society where literacy is a dangerous skill. With vivid descriptions, clever plotlines, and engaging characters, 'Fly by Night' offers a unique blend of fantasy, adventure, and social commentary that challenges readers to think and imagine beyond the conventional.

Tamsin by Peter S. Beagle is a ghost story set in rural Dorset, England, revolving around a young girl named Jenny who moves from New York City. The novel blends elements of Gothic fiction, history, death, and romance with a touch of traditional English magical lore. Through the eyes of Jenny, the teen narrator, readers are taken on a journey that balances real and unreal mythos, while exploring themes of self-discovery and growth.

The story follows Jenny as she navigates the haunted English manor house she now calls home, encountering ghosts, mythical creatures, and uncovering a 300-year-old mystery. With a blend of historical elements, folklore, and a strong focus on character development, Tamsin weaves a tale of friendship, adventure, and the supernatural that appeals to both young adult and adult readers alike.

A Face Like Glass by Frances Hardinge is a captivating tale set in the underground world of Caverna, where facial expressions are learned and manipulated for social status. The story follows Neverfell, a girl with natural and varied expressions, as she navigates the intricate society of Caverna, uncovering political machinations and dark secrets. Hardinge's writing style is praised for its imaginative world-building, rich characters, and intricate plot twists that keep readers engaged till the very end.

'Whichwood' is a magical fantasy tale set in the village of Whichwood, where Laylee, a mordeshoor, is tasked with preparing the dead to move on to the Otherwhere. The story follows Laylee's struggles with her early inheritance of this magical profession and the toll it takes on her physical and emotional well-being. The plot delves into themes of death, grief, and the paranormal, creating a dark and intense atmosphere. The writing style is described as beautiful, vivid, and lyrical, painting a colorful yet dark world full of magic.

Alice, a character from the series 'Furthermore,' is sent to Whichwood to save Laylee and help her rediscover color, magic, and the healing power of friendship. The book is categorized as middle grade fiction but has been noted for its mature themes and detailed descriptions. The story is engaging, easy to follow, and features a unique Persian fairytale-like narrative that captures the reader's attention.

In "Cuckoo Song" by Frances Hardinge, the story follows Triss, a young girl who wakes up after an accident with memory gaps and a strange hunger. As she navigates through a world filled with oddities and secrets, Triss discovers a society living in Ellchester, uncovering a sinister plot that threatens her family. Set in post-World War I England, the book delves into themes of family loyalty, self-discovery, and the bonds of sisterly love. With a mix of eerie supernatural elements, intricate world-building, and a touch of horror and suspense, the novel explores the journey of Triss as she unravels the truth about herself and the mysterious forces at play.

Frances Hardinge's writing style in "Cuckoo Song" is described as gorgeous, original, and captivating. Readers praise the author's ability to create a fascinating world within our own, filled with secrets, monsters, and unexpected twists. The book offers a unique take on the changeling fairy tale, blending elements of fantasy, mystery, and family drama to deliver a haunting and chilling tale that stays with the reader long after the story ends.

"Furthermore" by Tahereh Mafi is a whimsical fantasy tale that follows the journey of Alice Alexis Queensmeadow, a girl who feels like she doesn't fit in the vibrant community of Ferenwood due to her lack of color and seemingly insignificant magic talent. When Oliver Newbanks, a boy she dislikes, asks for her help in finding her missing father in the dangerous land of Furthermore, Alice reluctantly embarks on an adventure filled with mystery, self-discovery, and unexpected revelations. The story is engaging, colorful, and heartwarming, reminiscent of classic tales like "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Phantom Tollbooth", with themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and embracing individuality woven throughout.

The narrative style of the book is unique, akin to authors like Douglas Adams and Terry Pratchett, with a conversational tone that draws readers in and keeps them engaged. The plot unfolds with a series of mini-mysteries, questions, and surprises that gradually build up, leading to an adventurous journey where Alice and Oliver must navigate through a world where nothing is as it seems. However, some readers found that the story's quality dipped once the adventure began, as it focused on the dynamic between two stubborn characters rather than the initial intrigue and charm.

The Lie Tree by Frances Hardinge is a historical mystery set in the nineteenth century, following Faith Sunderly as she investigates her father's mysterious death. Faith discovers a magical tree that feeds on lies but reveals truths through its hallucinogenic fruit, leading her on a dangerous path to uncover the secrets surrounding her family. The book delves into themes of feminism, religion, and scientific debate, all intertwined in a gripping plot full of twists and turns. Hardinge's writing style expertly combines elements of fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction to create a dark and clever story with a strong female protagonist.

Enchantress from the Stars by Sylvia Engdahl is a science fiction novel set in a future where different civilizations exist at various stages of development. The story follows Elana, a young woman from an advanced society who stows away on her father's spaceship to join an anthropological mission on the planet Andrecia. As the Federation Anthropological Service intervenes to protect the native population from an invading force, Elana finds herself emotionally involved with a young Andrecian woodcutter, leading to conflicts of duty and personal beliefs. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Elana, the Andrecian villager Georyn, and the Imperial Medical Officer Jarel, providing a multi-dimensional exploration of cultural clashes and societal viewpoints.

Enchantress from the Stars blends elements of high technology and medieval settings, offering a tale of adventure, magic, philosophy, and romance. Through the interactions of the characters from different worlds and backgrounds, the book delves into themes of cultural understanding, ethical dilemmas, and the impact of advanced civilizations on less developed societies. The story unfolds with a mix of first-person and third-person narratives, providing depth and insight into the characters' motivations and struggles as they navigate the complexities of interstellar relations and personal growth.

Hexwood by Diana Wynne Jones is a complex and intricate tale that weaves together elements of fantasy, science fiction, time travel, and Arthurian legends. The story revolves around a decision-making machine called the Bannus, hidden on Earth for a thousand years, that manipulates reality and erases memories. As the narrative unfolds, readers are taken on a journey through different timelines, multiple identities, and a mysterious wood that holds great power. Characters like Ann Stavely, Vierran, and Mordion find themselves caught in a web of secrets, intergalactic power struggles, and hidden agendas, leading to a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of identity, responsibility, and rulership.