Behind a simple ununique cover hides one of the best YA novels of the year – “The Summoning”
“The Summoning” is the first book in the “Darkest Powers” series, by Canadian author Kelley Armstrong. There is no shortage in YA series nowadays. Vampires, werewolves, wizards and witches have all become commonplace in the genre. However, unlike other fantasy books of this sort, “The Summoning” is actually quite dark. The idea at the base of the plot, as well as a long series of horrifying visions ensure that there is not much chance of your finding the series becoming a movie franchise – not a simple thing these days. Maybe this is partly why it feels like Armstrong has succeeded in creating here something more real.
I presume many of you are thinking right now about the “Sixth Sense”, “Supernatural” and other similar movies and TV series, but as a good friend has taught me once – the quality of ideas is only as good as the talent of the authors or the script writers who write them. Out of the well-known mix of ideas Armstrong has managed to create something new, fascinating and wonderfully enjoyable. Since Armstrong seems to be aware of all the clichés which appear in similar narratives, and is aware of the fact that her audience is familiar with them as well, instead of running away from them, she harnesses them and assimilates them into the plot. Because of these, the plot becomes that much more believable and up-to-date –perhaps a little too up-to-date – which puts into question whether the plot’s relevance will survive the passage of time. “The Summoning” is not an immortal fantasy book, but not every book has to be. Sometimes, it is more than enough that the book is enjoyable and engaging – and for fans of dark fantasy, who are not overly troubled by the occasional horrifying description, “The Summoning” provides a nearly perfect reading experience.
Every once in a while I encounter questions about the intended audience for YA books, and especially – whether it is suitable for boys, as well? I presume we have “Twilight” and other “Twilight-Compatible” works to thank for that. Well, worry not, because I can whole heartedly say that “The Summoning” is equally suitable for all. Taking into account the recent publications in the genre, it is a refreshing and even empowering approach. Although the book is not without its romantic tensions, the protagonist, Chloe, does not fall in swoon into anybody’s strong muscular hands. On the other hand, she does not lose any of her femininity. She is a 15 year-old with thoughts, wills, worries and dreams that do not necessarily revolve around finding a romantic interest, and not by coincidence. It is clear that Armstrong was aware of other stories in the genre, but intentionally chose to a different path to follow and a different way to tell the story. All this makes it possible for her to concentrate on what is really important – the plot, or if you wish, the action!
Armstrong’s writing tempts the reader to gallop onwards, from page to page, with neither will nor need to stop for a rest. The plot unfolds, one layer after the other, without revealing anything prematurely and without using clumsy literary techniques, from beginning to end. The book is very well built, with the story’s energy well-balanced, and very convenient level of language, which perfectly fits the story.
Although the fantastical element in the plot takes a major place in the plot (as should be in a fantasy book), it is not the main thing. Something which only adds to the story’s credibility. The main characters, and mainly Chloey, are first and foremost teenagers, who just happened to get caught up in a situation which brought them together at the same place and the same time. Each and every one of them has a unique look, a distinct personality, a personal background, etc., and these actually influence their conduct. Lyle House is not just a “center for juvenile delinquents,” it is a kind of facility for mentally disturbed youth. Cloey and the rest of the “patients” need to handle the situation, with the tags attached to them, the prejudices and their own doubts. They need to cope with adults that do not always understand and do not always have their best in their interest. That is why, to some extent, even without the supernatural elements in the story, it is likely it reflects things which teenagers ca relate to.
Bottom Line
“Summoning” is a dark fantasy books for young adults, and it is unavoidable that its dark preoccupations will not be to the likings of everyone. BUT, for those who are capable and even like handling a little horror in their fantasy, it may be very enjoyable. It is no literary classic, nor the material from which blockbusters are made, but if it was a mini-series, for example, it would have been one of those series you would have liked to binge-watch. In short – recommended!
