Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Boisterous fantasy features vivid teen girl hero.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
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 :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- 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, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate