Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Magical tailor fights demon for her soul in lively fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
As UNRAVEL THE DUSK opens, Maia has returned to court as the emperor's tailor. But the empire is under siege, Maia is slowly turning into a demon, and Edan has lost some of his magical powers and disappeared. Caught between rival factions, she must use the magic in her clothes to contend with ghosts, tiger-demons, and her own growing demonic powers.
Is It Any Good?
Fantasy fiction often depends on unique sources of magic, and this Asian-influenced tale is fresh and compelling. The first volume, however, is a little more unusual in its narrative trajectory, putting a seamstress at the center of a fantasy saga. Nevertheless, Elizabeth Lim's Unravel the Dusk brings the duology to a fitting, satisfying end. Maia and Edan make a likable romantic couple, and the supporting cast includes some interesting villains and allies. Offbeat and well constructed, Unravel the Dusk proves to be the work of an exciting new talent.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Unravel the Dusk uses its fictional Asian setting to ground its story. Why might the author have chosen not to use a thoroughly realistic background?
Maia wants to protect her family from the knowledge that she's turning into a demon. Is it better to discuss hardships with your family or to keep bad news bottled up inside?
How long does it take to excel at something? Why is practice so vital to mastering any art or sport?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Knopf Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : July 7, 2020
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 15
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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