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Cover of Wildwood Dancing

Wildwood Dancing

Juliet Marillier (2007-01-01)

SubgenreHistorical Fantasy
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingPG
Pages408 (Chunky (400-600))
SeriesWildwood #1
Setting
CSM age13
Goodreads4.1

Content levels

ViolenceMild
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Hero archetypes

Protective Hero

Protagonist archetypes

Coming-of-Age Protagonist

Synopsis

High in the Transylvanian woods, at the castle Piscul Draculi, live five daughters and their doting father. It's an idyllic life for Jena, the second eldest, who spends her time exploring the mysterious forest with her constant companion, a most unusual frog. But best by far is the castle's hidden portal, known only to the sisters. Every Full Moon, they alone can pass through it into the enchanted world of the Other Kingdom. There they dance through the night with the fey creatures of this magical realm. But their peace is shattered when Father falls ill and must go to the southern parts to recover, for that is when cousin Cezar arrives. Though he's there to help the girls survive the brutal winter, Jena suspects he has darker motives in store. Meanwhile, Jena's sister has fallen in love with a dangerous creature of the Other Kingdom--an impossible union it's up to Jena to stop.When Cezar's grip of power begins to tighten, at stake is everything Jena loves: her home, her family, and the Other Kingdom she has come to cherish. To save her world, Jena will be tested in ways she can't imagine--tests of trust, strength, and true love.From the Hardcover edition.

Is Wildwood Dancing appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 13 and up.

A gentle fairy-tale retelling with sisters protecting their magical secret world from a controlling cousin. Themes of family loyalty, forbidden romance, and standing up to authority with mild peril but no graphic content.

What to know going in

This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include chronic illness, forbidden relationship, and manipulation (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens will love the magical portal to a dancing realm, the sisterly bond, and Jena's brave fight to protect her family and enchanted world.

Tags

Fairy Tale RetellingPortal FantasyRomantic FantasyFamily Drama