How could you not read a book titled The Left-Handed Booksellers of London?!? Right? Fantasy and science fiction author Garth Nix has been writing books for teens for a very long time, and although I haven't read a lot of his books, I always enjoy the ones I do read. Booksellers is definitely a YA (Young Adult) book, not so much due to content but to the complexity of his writing and language. He is Australian, but this story takes place in London, England. These two elements combined mean characters use words and references that younger American readers may not be as familiar with, hence the YA grouping. Otherwise, there are a few moments of strong language, but mild compared to a lot of teen and YA books out today. I didn't see any other reason why anyone couldn't give this book a try!
The Left-Handed Booksellers of London are not just booksellers, but ancient beings who also help protect the world from nefarious creatures and beings from throughout time. Nix creates his own world but bases the story's action in London - in 1983, to be precise. The line on the front cover of the book reads, "Authorized to kill...and sell books." Booksellers is a fantastical blend of authors and titles you may know, other "classic" literature, ghosts, giants, wolves, zombies, time travel...oh, and book selling. Oh, and killing.
The story reminds me a lot of a good Marie Lu book, or maybe even Veronica Roth, but especially of Terry Pratchett. This isn't a genre I read a lot of, but when I find a gem like this one I have a hard time putting the book down, and I'm always happy I tried it! Because of the references and language, I'm not sure many 6th graders would make it through this one (but try if it sounds interesting!). A sophisticated 7th grader, or an 8th grader and above, should give this a go! A lot of fun, a page turner, and I hated that it ended! 5 paws!
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