Shadow Weaver (Shadow Weaver #1)

Gr 4-6--Emmeline's magical shadow-weaving makes her an outcast despite her aristocratic class, which is why she's always been especially grateful for her "shadow," Dar, whose whispers protect her--and discourage her from making other friends. When Emmeline's parents threaten to send her away after she causes an accident, Dar helps her escape. But is Dar truly Emmeline's shadow, or something more sinister? When Dar begins whispering about a ceremony that will give her a real body, Emmeline must decide how far she'll go to help her closest companion whose dominant personality leaves Emmeline struggling for a sense of herself. Though some readers may question the protagonist's seemingly naive trust in her manipulative friend, their unusual relationship may spark discussion about the destructive potential of certain types of intimacy and relationships. As Emmeline explores the outside world, she must shake off her passivity and disassociate herself from her "shadow" with the help of her new friend, light-weaving Lucas. Connolly's descriptions of magic, especially of Emmeline's shadow-play, are vivid and invigorating. The looming threat of an off-stage magic-eating villain leaves the novel somewhat open-ended, with the potential for a sequel. VERDICT Readers looking for a supernatural twist on toxic friendships will appreciate this complex and compelling read.--Katherine Magyarody, Texas A&M University, College Station