Jane, Unlimited by Kristin Cashore

JANE, UNLIMITED by Kristin Cashore was a book that I eagerly anticipated because I know how much I – and students – have liked her writing, particularly Graceling. And I found the first two-thirds or so of JANE, UNLIMITED to be a fun, engaging read. Jane, just out of high school and looking for a life direction, is mourning the aunt who raised her and is creating one-of-a-kind umbrella works of art when she is invited to Tu Reviens, the family home of a very well off acquaintance.  She visits, remembering her promise to Aunt Magnolia to go there, if anyone ever asks. And then the strange behaviors start: disappearing works of art; spies and espionage; magical realism as the house seems to have powers of its own.  While I liked the mystery element, there is a significant shift in the story and Jane starts repeating her day, depending on the choices she makes (kind of a choose-your-own adventure feature ultimately across five genres) with the events becoming more weird, horrific, and unreal.   

Honestly, these multiple realities felt like more of an interesting writing challenge for the author than an entertaining story for the reader. At over 450 pages, this book may appeal to ambitious readers, but I wonder if most students will be patient enough to keep struggling with Jane through all of the strange events.  JANE, UNLIMITED received a starred review from School Library Journal.  

A year or so ago, I had some very positive comments about Jessica Cluess’ A Shadow Bright and Burning and I am happy to see that a second book in the series, A POISON DARK AND DROWNING, was recently released. This one, too, is filled with magic, romance, secrets and monsters! And isn’t the cover absolutely beautiful?  Read both of Cluess' books, in order. Then you will be ready for the third!  Yes, these titles also appear long, but the lexile levels are low (670) and both middle school and reluctant high school readers will enjoy the page-turning fantasy adventures of Henrietta (Nettie), her dear friend Rook, flirtatious Magnus, and the Earl of Sorrow-Fell.  Author Jessica Cluess is a graduate of Northwestern University and I love that she has worked for Writopia Lab – here’s hoping that we can get a representative to consider attending our annual Literary Festival held every Fall.