The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy by Anne Ursu
Published by Walden Pond Press on October 12, 2021
ISBN: 0062275127
Pages: 432
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

In the Kingdom of Illyria, boys are sought out and tested for magical talent so that they might become sorcerer’s capable of defending the land against a deadly curse known as the Dread. When Marya accidentally disrupts her brother Luka’s test, she is sent to Dragomir Academy, a school for troubled girls. Alongside the other girls, Marya tries to figure out how to shape herself into the expectations of a society that doesn’t have a place for her. She quickly realizes that what they have been told their whole lives is not the full truth, and that those with power will do anything to keep it for themselves. 

This captivating fantasy is a must-have for middle grade collections. Strong female characters fighting for their place in a patriarchal society with a critical message about the question that we must all remember to ask ourselves: “Who does the story serve?” Perfect for fans of Colfer’s “A Tale of Magic.” Nominated for Cream. 

Kerrie Lattari, York Middle School, York