Title: When Among Crows

Author: Veronica Roth

Reviewer: Rhonda Bruce

Audience:  Stage 5/6

"I know that the fern flower unravels most curses," he says. "But it can only be touched by mortal hands." Klara's eyes stay locked on the fern flower. "How did you get that?" she says, her voice rough. "I was tested," he replies. (P29)

Dymitr is on a mission to break a curse. Ala is a fear-eating zmora that will kill her. Niko is a powerful and very attractive male strzyga who feeds on rage. One night in modern-day Chicago, Dymitr seeks help from Ala to find the legendary witch, Baba Jaga in exchange for the fern flower that will remove her family's curse. Ala agrees - but they only have 36 hours...

Suggested reading for the Stage 5 and 6 English Syllabus, covering texts with a wide range of social and gender perspectives, popular and youth cultures.