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Cover of Each of Us a Desert

Each of Us a Desert

Mark Oshiro (2020)

SubgenreDark Fantasy
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingPG-13
Pages432 (Chunky (400-600))
Setting
CSM age14
Goodreads3.84/5 (1548)

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentMild
LanguageMild

Synopsis

Xochital is destined to wander the desert alone, speaking her troubled village's stories into its arid winds. Her only companions are the blessed stars above and enimagic lines of poetry magically strewn across dusty dunes. Her one desire: to share her heart with a kindred spirit. One night, Xo's wish is granted—in the form of Emilia, the cold and beautiful daughter of the town's murderous mayor. But when the two set out on a magical journey across the desert, they find their hearts could be a match... if only they can survive the nightmare-like terrors that arise when the sun goes down.

Is Each of Us a Desert appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 14 and up.

This YA dark fantasy features a queer romance between two girls on a perilous desert journey with nightmare creatures and violence. Includes themes of isolation, duty, and self-discovery with moderate fantasy violence.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include death, violence, and isolation (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens will be drawn to the magical desert setting, the slow-burn romance between two girls from different worlds, and the quest to survive terrifying nighttime creatures.

Tags

LGBTQ+ FantasyMagical RealismJourney FantasyLatinx Fantasy