Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Strong, smart heroine in absorbing, gently paced mystery.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Claire finds a mysterious letter her father wrote to her stepfather long ago. Even though it's been 10 years since her father died, Claire never knew that the two men knew each other. She's determined to learn the truth about her parents' past and the secrets they've been keeping all this time. As she digs, Claire begins to suspect her father may have had ties to the yakuza. And when she starts receiving threats that only someone who knows Japanese culture would understand, it's clear that someone will do anything to stop her.
Is It Any Good?
This absorbing mystery unfolds at a graceful pace best suited for a patient reader. The plot builds slowly but steadily to a surprising end that reveals truths not only about the past but also about Claire herself. Teens will enjoy Claire's large circle of childhood friends who help solve the mystery, and elements of Japanese culture bring fresh appeal.
INK AND ASHES is a solid debut novel. The writing is good, but the lyrical language promised in the first few pages isn't sustained throughout the story. Still, author Valynne E. Maetani keeps the pages turning. Claire's voice is realistic and engaging and provides a strong foundation as the reader navigates family secrets, budding romance, high school life, and a growing sense of danger.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how people who've immigrated to the U.S. maintain ties to their cultural heritage. Which customs or rituals have you inherited from your family's past? Do they help you feel connected to other people or places around the world?
What do you predict for Claire and Forrest's relationship in the future? Will their years of childhood friendship cement their bond or make it harder for a new relationship to last?
Did you find the glossary in the back helpful? Did you learn anything about Japanese culture that you didn't know before?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Mystery
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Tu Books
- Publication date : June 1, 2015
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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