Impossible Creatures

Summary: Christopher’s life changes forever when he saves a baby Griffin from a secret lake. That very day he’d learned about a series of unmapped islands called the Archipelago, home to magical creatures for thousands of years. It’s also the day he met Mal – a girl on the run in need of his help. The two start on a wild adventure to discover why the magic is fading and magical creatures are dying off. They seek wisdom from sphinxes and talk to dragons, yet the closer they get to the terrible truth behind the fading magic, they realize it’s up to them.

My Review: I enjoyed this book, but was frustrated when I came across a mention of a same sex marriage in the back of the book in the section explaining the different types of creatures. Afterward, I became aware that there is a character of sorts who is genderfluid. Basically, in this magical land, there is this “soul” or “power” that inhabitants a person from birth to death, and then passes on to someone else. Well, because the soul doesn’t stick to one gender to inhabitant, it is genderfluid. This is something to think about, but it isn’t like there is an actual character claiming to be genderfluid. Overall, the characters were fun and unique, and the plot drew me in. 

My Takeaway: Overall I enjoyed this book, but there are several controversial themes you want to be aware of: slightly darker magic, LGTBQ+ idea in the end pages, and numerous bouts of fighting, often bloody, but not descriptive. If you decide to read this book, I suggest for 11+!

Romance: Light, (between two adult characters) you can tell they love each other, a kiss

Nudity: None.

Language: Mentions of swearing

Alcohol/drugs/smoking: Light, a pirate like character gets drunk several times.

Violence: Light (leaning towards mild), there are multiple fight including both animals and humans,  and there are injuries that aren’t graphic or very bloody, but some gross ones such as a poisoned bite getting infected.

Darkness: Mild, the villain of the book which you encounter at the end could be frightening to some kids, the several scenes including him have a dark feeling, and there is a sacrificial decision at the end.

Bad Messages: As mentioned before, there is a same sex marriage mentioned, and a genderfluid character of sorts

Good Messages: The power of friendship, good vs. evil

Stars: 3