REVIEW: ‘Caraval: Collector’s Edition’ by Stephanie Garber
Image courtesy of Flatiron Books / Provided by official site.
Fans of Stephanie Garber’s Caraval trilogy — and there are many, many fans around the world — must be enjoying the holiday season thanks to a new collector’s edition of the book that started it all. Caraval: Collector’s Edition features the first part of the trilogy, a much beloved fantasy novel, and it also includes a couple new endings, a chapter written from a different perspective, journal notes and a hint at Garber’s next book.
Caraval is a whimsical YA tale that centers on the love between two sisters. Scarlett and Donatella (Tella) live on a small isle, and they must obey the rules and regulations of their tyrannical and abusive father. In fact, the father is so devious that he sets up a horrible form of retribution: If Scarlett upsets him, he hits Tella, and vice versa. The abuse in the novel is shocking and propels the two sisters to think of a better life elsewhere.
One means of escape for Scarlett, who is the true protagonist of the tale, is her written pleas to a mysterious figure known as Legend, who runs a game of magic known as Caraval. It is Scarlett’s dream to play this game one day and meet the man behind the curtain once and for all. When the story opens, Scarlett finds her dreams have come true: She receives a letter that Legend has invited her to this year’s Caraval, and if she wins the contest, a wish will be granted to her. In this fantastical world, a wish can go a long way toward happiness.
Another pivotal character is Julian, who is almost as mysterious as Legend. He aids Scarlett and Tella as they flee their home isle (and Scarlett’s pending marriage to an unknown suitor) and head across the sea to the location of the Caraval contest. Julian has played the game before, so he’s able to provide some pointers about what to expect.
Garber has an easy-going, likable writing style that nicely defines each character, especially Scarlett, who is an engaging protagonist and someone who has a clear arc throughout these 400 pages. As the reader follows her on these wild journeys, there are many interesting writing choices, including several references to colors and plenty of metaphors. The descriptions are highly detailed and fitting of the fantasy genre.
It’s not difficult to envision Caraval’s scenery, thanks to Garber’s descriptions. It’s a place of magic, but it’s unlike Hogwarts because Caraval seems more secretive, with stairways appearing out of nowhere, the action taking place during the night rather than during the day and many balconies offering breathtaking vistas and the potential for danger. There’s also a great deal of sexual tension between Julian and Scarlett.
The collector’s edition is quite attractive and would make a nice addition to a person’s bookshelf. The hardcover book has an elaborate slipcase and a feeling of mystery, as if there’s magic in Garber’s words, which can only be accessed by opening up and reading the tome.
Caraval is a fast-paced adventure into a magical realm that is equal parts dark and light. There are horrors around many corners, including toxic masculinity and abuse, but there’s also hope that can be found in the power of love and the reliance on a trustworthy sister.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Caraval: Collector’s Edition by Stephanie Garber. Flatiron Books. 448 pages. Ages 13-18. Click here for more information.
