Graceling
by Kristin Cashore
grades 6 & up

In the land of the seven kingdoms, certain people are born with “graces.” It is evident by their eyes, which are two different colors. The graces vary greatly from person to person. They can be as useful as a cooking grace or as absurd as a grace which allows one to jump from tree to tree. People with graces (or “gracelings”) are generally feard by those without. And none more so than Lady Katsa, whose grace is killing. Katsa despises what she has become, a weapon for her uncle King Randa. Out of rebellion she has formed The Council, whose goal it is to right the wrongs of the kings of the seven kingdoms. The book opens with the rescue of Grandfather Tealiff, the father of the Liender King. But who kidnapped him? And why? And why is there a Liender fighting graceling in the courtyard as they make their escape? The search for answers leads Katsa deeper and deeper into a mystery surrounding King Leck, who is known for his kindness to small children and animals. Can Katsa solve the mystery in time? An excellent story! Highly recommended!