Shadow Magic draws readers in with its blend of spooky gothic atmosphere and dry, witty humor. Lilith and Thorn provide a relatable look at outcasts reclaiming their power while navigating a kingdom filled with giant bats and political betrayals. Books in this family share a balance of macabre settings and cozy stakes where unlikely friendships bridge social divides.
Reach for this book when your child feels like they do not fit the traditional mold of a hero or when they find comfort in the macabre and spooky rather than the bright and cheery. Shadow Magic introduces us to Lilith Shadow, a girl who has inherited a kingdom of darkness but is forbidden from practicing the necromancy her family is known for. Alongside Thorn, a peasant boy sold into her service, she must navigate a world of political betrayal and ancient magic to save her home. It is a story about finding power in your identity, even when that identity is deemed scary by others. The book explores themes of loyalty, grief, and the weight of expectations. While the setting is gothic and atmospheric, the core is a warm story about two outcasts finding a sense of belonging in each other. It is an excellent choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy fantasy with a slightly darker, Tim Burton esque edge but still want a hopeful resolution.
