The Magic Library of Waterfall Way (The Prophecymakers) by Julie Abe

What worked:

Lyra is immediately cast into the role of underdog when she’s labeled Extremely Unremarkable. She’s the only Unremarkable in the empire, and the empire’s census shows it. She’ll be sent to the Mist if a guild doesn’t accept her, and every guild so far balks when they become aware of her status as Extremely Unremarkable. Readers will develop empathy for Lyra’s character because she’s desperate to find a place she can call home. Her parents are dead, and her older sister is in the Guild of the Crown, so she doesn’t have any family left. The Guild of Scholars is her last chance to avoid the Mist.

The Guild of the Crown is cast in a negative light, as its superiority is lorded over everyone else. This guild will probably become more of a focus in future books, but the Mist is the true antagonist this time. The Mist was once united with the Guilds, but they were separated hundreds of years ago. The Mist wants to control all of the magic in the world, although they’re appeased when the Guilds send them any Unremarkables who are not part of a guild. Readers and Lyra will learn more about the Mist throughout the book, as Lyra reads and hears stories about the past. The topic of Prophecymakers arises later in the plot, but it’s very important to the series.

Two supporting characters are important to the plot for different reasons. Wishlight is a sable that can transform into a book, with a tail. Lyra and Wishlight can communicate through their minds, and Wishlight possesses a bit of magic. Wishlight gives Lyra an unexpected quest that becomes the conflict’s main conflict. Flynn is the assistant to the Guild Master, and his dislike for Lyra is evident. He openly says he wishes she’d leave, even though they’ve both lost family members. There are moments when they seem to bond, but any camaraderie doesn’t last.

What didn’t work as well:

Lyra’s quest is unusual, as it involves reopening halls in the library that closed following a great fire. She makes attempts to find the keys, but she can always leave whenever she wants to have dinner or rest in her bed. Venturing inside the library presents dangers, but the ability to leave makes it unusual.

The final verdict:

The fact that Lyra is an orphan and only wants to find a new family and home will touch readers’ heartstrings. The premise of the book is fresh and innovative, and I recommend you give it a shot!