Oddity
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Oddity, by Eli Brown and illustrated by Karin Rytter, is a fantasy set in an alternate 1822 America where the Louisiana Purchase never happened and the territory is co-ruled by France, the 11 Unified States, and the (fictional) Sehanna Confederation. The action follows main character Clover Elkin, age 13, as she goes on a quest to retrieve her murdered father's magical possessions, called oddities. Violent scenes are usually magic-based -- including monsters made out of roadkill -- and could be frightening for some readers. There's no swearing or sex.
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What's the Story?
As ODDITY begins, Clover Elkin watches in horror as her physician father is murdered by poachers seeking magical objects known as oddities. Clover swears to retrieve his stolen satchel, a promise that sends her on a quest that involves a talking rooster, a super-strong rag doll, a girl who runs a medicine show, and a man with a hat that captures secrets. Clover herself discovers new abilities, and she becomes a pawn in a brewing war that could destroy eveything she cares about.
Is It Any Good?
To say that a book is charming may be faint praise, but this alternate-history fantasy manages to keep a light touch that satisfies. Author Eli Brown builds a world full of unexpected magic, where common items such as ice tongs or gloves are imbued with special powers. Clover, the main character, is vividly drawn -- sensitive yet resilient, determined to keep her promises no matter what the cost. Funny, scary, and deeply imaginative, Oddity is an off-kilter delight. And Karin Rytter's woodcut-style illustrations add to the charm.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Oddity presents an alternate version of American history. What might have happened if the Louisiana Purchase never occurred? Why do writers enjoy speculating on ways to change history?
How does Clover keep going in the face of terrible adversity? How do people find the inner strength to persevere when the outlook is the bleakest?
Why is it important to keep promises? Why are secrets dangerous?
Book Details
- Author: Eli Brown
- Genre: Fantasy
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Great Girl Role Models
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Walker Books U.S.
- Publication date: March 30, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 10 - 16
- Number of pages: 368
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: March 29, 2021
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