BOOK BRIEF

The Shadows

Jacqueline West
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The Shadows

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2010

Book Brief

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Jacqueline West

The Shadows

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

2010

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

The Shadows by Jacqueline West is the first book in the The Books of Elsewhere series that follows a young person named Olive. They move into an old house filled with peculiar paintings, and soon discover an eerie world within them. Olive unlocks secrets, revealing a hidden, mysterious realm with unexpected consequences.

Mysterious

Unnerving

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.3

11,140 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Shadows by Jacqueline West captivates with its atmospheric setting and engaging plot, drawing readers into a world of mystery and magic. The blend of fantasy elements and relatable characters adds depth, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a charmingly eerie tale that appeals to young readers seeking adventure and intrigue.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Shadows?

A reader who enjoys The Shadows by Jacqueline West likely relishes middle-grade fantasy and mystery with a gothic atmosphere. Fans of The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman or Coraline would appreciate its eerie and imaginative storytelling, vibrant characters, and a blend of whimsy and suspense.

4.3

11,140 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

The Shadows is the first book in the award-winning middle-grade series The Books of Elsewhere, which is known for its unique blend of magic, mystery, and art.

Jacqueline West, the author of The Shadows, was inspired by classic works of children's literature, such as Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and The Chronicles of Narnia.

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The series has garnered attention for its imaginative and atmospheric description of art coming to life, drawing readers into a world where paintings are portals to another dimension.

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Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

2010

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

770L

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