The Book That Proves Friendship Beats Everything

The Shadow Society by Marie Rutkoski tells the story of Darcy Jones, a teenager who was completely abandoned as a child with no memory of her past. She discovers she's a "shade," a ghost-like being from an alternate dimension, constantly at war with humans. In this story, Darcy uncovers her true identity and the secrets of the Shadow Society. She faces a constant threat of betrayal and is forced to make difficult choices about loyalty and her true identity. Because the fact of the matter is, sometimes the choice can be confusing, and the answers are not always clear.  

I love this book because Darcy's relationships with her friends highlight the significance of trust and loyalty. They are there for her through thick and thin and never once question her motives or intentions.  

The journey Darcy faces is a poignant reminder of what it means to be human.  It is natural for us to seek a sense of belonging and try to discover "our true selves," especially when life feels uncertain. But it's our friendships with others and the genuine acts of empathy around us that ground us in what it truly means to be human. The lesson she gives us is simple. Trust and love can bridge divides, heal wounds, and give us the strength to face adversity. 

-Lauren