The Emerald Atlas

Man, this was a really excellent and refreshing read. Probably fits in the category of meant-for-middle-schoolers-but-good-for-adults-too type of thing (i.e. Narnia, Harry Potter). The heart of this story are the three siblings, and the simple fact that the author knows how to write an engaging and fast-paced novel. Seriously, those siblings feel quite real, relatable, and very, very lovable. Action was dramatic and there was no time wasted with unneeded words. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time reading. Definitely a light fantasy novel; the book has been criticized for not being the most original in terms of world-building. I won't count that as a negative though. I'd prefer a story with familiar ideas if it has the pulse-quickening effect this one does. This book is not a deeply overthought fantasy nerd fest, but the writing holds you by the throat.