White+Cat

//White Cat// by Holly Black

The first of her Curse Workers series which is now complete. So it's been awhile since I've read this one. Male protagonist, part of a mob family who all have special abilities. Everyone in the world wears gloves as a sort of safety measure, since the curse workers can do horrible things to you, based on their ability, simply by touching you. The main character doesn't think he has any powers, but his memory proves not that reliable. Anyway, I really liked this series and though I am loath to say 'boy book' or 'girl book', I do think it would appeal to all genders. Holly Black is also local, from Massachusetts. Julie Andrews, Nashua PL

A mob family drama set in a world with magic. Curseworking (magical manipulation through touch) is illegal, and Cassel's family is part of the criminal underworld. From his mother, who can manipulate emotions, to his grandfather, who can kill with a touch, everyone in the family is a Curseworker. Everyone except Cassel. But now Cassel is having odd dreams & flashbacks, and has started wondering if his family is as close & trustworthy as he'd thought. He also is being visited by a white cat, who reminds him of his best friend & crush, a mob princess who disappeared years before, who Cassel believes he may have killed. What's really happening to Cassel, and what secrets have been kept from him? This was a unique story setting, and the characters were well done & believable, if not always likeable. The mystery, crime & lead character will all appeal to boys, but the girls will find plenty here as well. My teens who've read this have been obsessed! -Lucia Von Letkemann, Wiggin Memorial Library, Stratham 1/16/13

I loved this book and its sequels--and I agree with Julie's comment that it's not a "boy book" or a "girl book," but it is one of those rare ones that will appeal to both. It's also very funny and Black does a great job creating a world slightly different from ours without a lot of setup. I highly recommend it for the final list. Caitlin, Bedford Public Library