TW: parental death 

 

Oddity is not only an apt title, but an apt description of this book.  As I was listening to it, talking with a friend, I just kept describing it as odd.  Our main character Clover is the daughter of doctor,  in a land where the Louisiana Purchase failed.  The nation, especially the south are really worried that Napoleon will send his troops over to conquer and take the land that that was up for sale.  Napoleon is a constant fear in the back of most people’s minds. 

 

The world is not as we pictured it.  There are “oddities” in the world.  These are everyday objects that have “power”.  For example, the wine glass that is never empty, the ice hook that is always cold, the gun that never misses, and the doll that walks, talks, and creates havoc.  This is just a sampling of oddities.  There are also vermin – animal parts cobbled together and given new life.    Clover’s dad has always warned his daughter to beware of oddities.  They may seem great and interesting, but they can cause great damage. However, due to her father’s death, her place in the world, and her heritage, Clover cannot stay away.  The “American” troops are on a hunt for an oddity that can stop Napolean, for they fear he has an oddity of his own that ensures he always has troops.  so Clover, ever curious, and wanting to help people, is in the middle of it all. 

 

I picked this book up because it was supposed to be a middle grade western.  That might be a bit of a stretch.  It does feel more western in the second half of the book as Clover heads west on the search for her mother and the oddity to end all oddities.  This is historical magical realism that is done so well, the reader is just enveloped in the story and does not want to leave.  Saying this book is odd, is a compliment.  There is nothing else like it out there, it stands on its own two feet.  While the book cover matches the story, I think the book cover is why this title is a sleeper.  If it would have had a more modern cover, a cover like Rick Riordian Presents, or more colorful and comic like, I think this would fly off the shelf more.  But give it a try.  It is entirely worth it.  This book was a lot of fun, had a lot of heart, and had an amazing concept.  It will live in my mind, and be on my recommendation list for years to come.