Book Review - In The Shadows

In The Shadows by Kiersten White and Jim Di Bartolo
♦publisher: Scholastic Press 
♦release date: April 29, 2014
♦hardcover, 384 pages
♦intended audience: Young adult

 Review:

While pairing the works of a graphic novel with written chapters, Into the Shadows, steps into the light, shining on readers a unique reading experience. Capturing the words of a storyline with intricate artwork, that is captivating past the regular means of illustration. Pouring pure magic upon its vibrant pages, as the illustrations practically lift off the pages, provoking strong emotional reactions.

Cora and Minnie live in a boarding house with their mother. Growing up with stories of strange occurrences and a town witch being the only excitement in their small town. Until one day, when a mysterious stranger knocks on their door. Arthur, a friend of family; young, lonely and emotionally vacant, with nowhere else to turn.  With a refreshing air of mystery that surrounds him, Cora and Minnie share in the delight of having him around, as the three of them soon fall in step with one another. Arthur finally finds the refuge he’s been searching for with the girls, along with discovering a desire to protect them. Keeping them safe, not only from the eerie town witch but also from the resounding mystery that he is certain killed his father.

All too soon, a year passes as Arthur, Cora and Minnie, find themselves with new summer boarders. Including two boys their age, Thomas and Charles. Promising to be a summer of fun, Charles and Thomas, only wish for fresh air and a safe haven for the dying Charles to be at peace. Before Arthur had the attention of Minnie and Cora to himself, but now he finds himself having to share their affections with the two new boarders. Despite the mounting tension, the group quickly realizes that their lives will soon intertwine, causing an ancient mystery to finally surface. While events quickly get out of control, the group is soon lead into a new magical adventure. Teaching them that all is not what it appears, witches can in fact hold more secrets than meets the eye, and trusting one another might be the only key to survival. However, if they lose faith in one another now, it might not just put each other in danger, it could also cost them their lives.

Intermingling and interlacing storylines, weave together a timeline that expands through the decades. One story continues where the other leaves off, creating a unique and impactful reading experience.  The artwork of Jim Di Bartolo, creates a special depth to particular characters, all the while telling a story. Merging an ingenious technique that weaves together a story that is both magical and dark, with hints of promise and resolv