Stork by Wendy Delsol
Hardcover: 357 pages
Publisher: Candlewick (October 12, 2010)
Summary: Family secrets. Lost memories. And the arrival of an ancient magical ability that will reveal everything.
Sixteen-year-old Katla LeBlanc has just moved from Los Angeles to Minnesota. As if it weren’t enough that her trendy fashion sense draws stares, Katla soon finds out that she’s a Stork, a member of a mysterious order of women tasked with a very unique duty. But Katla’s biggest challenge may be finding her flock at a new school. Between being ignored by Wade, the arrogant jock she stupidly fooled around with, and constantly arguing with gorgeous farm boy and editor-in-chief Jack, Katla is relieved when her assignment as the school paper’s fashion columnist brings with it some much-needed friendship. But as Homecoming approaches, Katla uncovers a shocking secret about her past — a secret that binds her fate to Jack’s in a way neither could have ever anticipated.
My review: Katla is the new girl in town, living with her newly divorced mom in Minnesota. In the school hallways all eyes follow her, voices whisper about her. The one set of eyes she doesn't want to see belong to the strange but cute apple delivery boy, Jack, whose intense stare makes her feel.... she's not sure. After meeting some equally strange townswomen, especially Hulga and Gim, and being accepted into a group calling themselves the Stork Society, Kat really misses her old, normal, home in California.
Stork may begin with the new kid in town/city verses country storyline so many other books have tirelessly used, but Delsol kicks up the cliched premise with some interesting twists and turns. Kat is a funny, snark-filled senior with a flair for fashion and accessorizing. She has no choice but to accept her new life in her mom's small, old-fashioned hometown. Over time Kat begins to like the place, its quirky cast of characters, her new role as a Stork, and spending time with Jack. The storyline blends Nordic folklore with mythology, touches upon the fairy tales of Hans Christian Anderson and Icelandic traditions in an engaging manner. There's a growing attraction, some sweet, romantic moments, and Kat's growing accustomed to her new ability.Stork brings a unique and fresh perspective to the paranormal market. Once you enter her world you may not want to leave it!
Rating: ++++
Cover comment: Huge cute factor going for it. I also like the snowflakes (nice touch).
Favorite excerpt: (from page 261, ARC)
"Do you beleive in fate?" he asked.
How many days ago had Hulda asked me that same question? How much had happened since then? "Yes."
"It's hard to explain," he said, "but from the moment I laid eyes on you skating, I felt this unshakable sense of fate, or destiny, or whatever you want to call it."
"I know someone who calls it karma."
"Karma it is, then." He rested his chin on my head."
Book source: Around the World tours
Comments
Post a Comment