The Forest of Hands and Teeth

Let me start with the fact that I dont read often. I have a hard time finding books that peak my interest. But this series is by far my favorite. I can see myself in these books. I can envision myself there with the characters. Carrie's writing is so detailed that I can imagine everything that is going on. I highly recommend this series. Especially if you are looking for something that keeps you on your toes.

Ryan has crafted a darkly imaginative novel in which she's showcased themes that focus on core issues many of today's young adults commonly face. Sacrifice, obligation, individuality, love, and betrayal are all explored as Mary interacts with members of her family, an array of villagers and fights against the Unconsecrated. Making it all that much more intense Ryan weaves in the constant threat of death without being gratuitously violent. Above all she focuses on the above issues in a unique way that draws the reader in and allows them to relate to the story despite living in a different time and place. Most impressive is the author's ability to build complex characters with impressive strength that remain intriguing throughout a variety of trying circumstances. Characters readers root for and want to see happily successful in the end. As one would expect the main character, Mary, is most compelling as she is the central focus throughout the story. She is a strong willed, inquisitive, though quiet character. Profoundly affected by her circumstances she strives for individuality in a place where such endeavors are unwelcome. More than anything she wants love, happiness and above all freedom from the bindings of her surroundings. Most notably she wants to explore the history of the world her mother shared with her; a history of life before the Unconsecrated rose and became captors of the human race. It is her captivating presence throughout the novel that drives the story and grabs hold of readers from the very first chapter. If you are a reader who enjoys a complex story that keeps you guessing The Forest of Hands and Teeth is definitely a book to add to your list of must reads.

Mary's world is fenced in. she lives in a small enclave within the Forest of Hands and Teeth, constantly surrounded by the fear of an attack by the Unconsecrated. All she really knows is that she should listen to the Sisterhood's wisdom, let the Guardians protect her, and perform her expected duties. But Mary's world starts to unravel when her parents are infected and become Unconsecrated and she joins the Sisterhood. She learns about the secrets the Sisterhood has been guarding and that there might actually be a world outside the tiny one Mary knows, a possibility that tears down the rest of the trust Mary's placed in God and the Sisterhood. And then the fence is breached and there is no more safety, only dangerous uncertainties. Now Mary will have to make the most difficult decisions of her life between love and duty, fear of the unknown and faith in possibilities, and survival and her dreams. The Forest of Hands and Teeth is a riveting tale set in a terrifying post apocalyptic world, but although the story is well written and captures my attention, I'm not quite sure if I like it or not. There is no doubt that Ryan is a skilled storyteller, especially for a debut author, and I like her vividly descriptive and honest style. Mary's character is a success as well; readers will be able to relate to her curiosity and questioning of what she has always known. Mary's bleak situation made me trust her as a narrator, because the atrocity of living surrounded by Unconsecrated cannot be glossed over, and appreciate the complicated love story centering on her; I couldn't help but keep rooting for Mary to pull through and survive. What I didn't enjoy, though, was Ryan's slaughter, or perhaps sacrifice, of many main characters; it was just so heartbreaking and made me feel a sad sense of hopelessness. I understand that such a novel as this can't have a perfectly happy ending because of the devastated atmosphere, but the love proved through Mary's relationships with various other characters was partially spoiled by all the death. I was also disappointed that more background information was not provided regarding the Unconsecrated and how they came to be, except my inference of the connection between the spread of the virus and hope. But then again, maybe it was supposed to be that way and I just didn't understand everything. Though not quite what I was expecting or hoping for, The Forest of Hands and Teeth is still a captivating tale that everyone should read to interpret for themselves. Fans of The Abhorsen Chronicles by Garth Nix, Daylight Runner by Oisín McGann, Shift by Charlotte Agell, and the Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld may enjoy this novel as well. I look forward to more writing from Ryan.

What can I say about The Forest of Hands and Teeth. It was fantastic. I've yet to find a book to rival the intensity and carefully woven darkness contained inside. Classic terror? Absolutely not. Carrie Ryan's words are magical. As I read I found my stomach in knots and I was delightfully terrified to finish the book. The Forest of Hands and Teeth grabs you by the wrists, slices them open and delves in deep, penetrating the very core of your being. Read it, and you'll see what I mean.