When her mom mysteriously disappears, Anaíd discovers that she belongs to an ancient tribe of witches. She must quickly learn the arts of witchcraft to enter The Dark World and find her mother. Suddenly unpopularity and not-so-good looks seem like small problems! Carranza relates a complicated tale about two bands of warring witches, the Odish and Omar, and the ancient prophecy that binds them together. Anaíd’s mother Selene is believed to be The Chosen One, a redheaded beauty at the heart of the prophecy. Anaíd’s story, thick with legend and epic struggles, finds real strength in her experiences and distinctively modern voice. Teens will love watching the mousy outsider grow into an immensely powerful witch. The twists in this circuitous story keep readers guessing, wondering who’s an ally and who’s an enemy. Feminist issues (sisterhood, power, independence) surface, nudging young women to value their gender. All young adults will relate to Anaíd’s unabated yearning for friendship. Rich, sophisticated language leaves readers spellbound; a relentless plot will have them panting during Anaíd’s first tremulous steps into The Dark World. (Fiction. 14 & up)
