Plain Kate by Erin Bow

The story goes that her father told the butcher, "This is my beloved Katarina . . . but I just call her plain Kate."  So Plain Kate she is called by the town.

Plain Kate is a woodcarver with exceptional talent.  She carves charms to protect people from evil.  But now, the people are looking for someone to blame for all that is going wrong.  Plain Kate is in danger as they have decided she must be a witch.

The only escape Plain Kate can see is to make a deal with the mysterious Linaywho just came to town.  In exchange for her shadow, he will gift her the secret desire of her heart.

But Plain Kate soon discovers that being without a shadow is nearly as dangerous as being considered a witch.  Then she finds out what Linay is planning with her shadow . . . .


This book was suspenseful.  You couldn't help but feel for Plain Kate as her situation keeps growing worse and worse.  I would highly recommend this book to teens who enjoy fantasy or stories of witches.