The Thickety: A Path Begins by J.A. White, illustrated by Andrea Offermann

Katherine Tegen Books, an imprint of Harper Collins, 2014

ISBN-13: 978-0062257239

Available:  Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle edition

Welcome to De’Noran, a village reminiscent of a Salem-era town, where witch hunts are a village event.  Those familiar with M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village will find De’Noran to be its evil twin: a secluded village cut off from The World and full of condemnation and heavy-handed rules. In De’Noran, children are raised under the laws of their founder, Timoth Clen, who taught that magic is the ultimate evil, and that village inhabitants should never enter the Thickety– the dark and ever-encroaching forest separating De’Noran from The World.

A Path Begins immediately pulls readers into a dark and sinister story of good and evil, sadness, secrets and family bonds. The hero is quiet, self-reflective 12-year-old Kara Westfall who, as a five year old, witnesses the brutal murder of her mother at the hands of the villagers within the first few pages of the book. Kara is left to deal with the aftermath of being the child of a condemned witch: a father who is emotionally scarred, a sickly younger brother, a farm that is primarily hers to tend to, and the constant torments of the villagers.

A Path Begins is full of heavy, dark imagery and frightening events. It is not a light read. However, it is also full of a wonderful depth of both character and storyline. It is easy to feel the pain that Kara is left with at her mother’s death and the protective nature she feels toward both her father and her brother. The story maintains a steady pace and is full of intrigue, secrets and stunning revelations that make it difficult to put down. Through it all, characters are required to make difficult choices between compassion and personal gain.

The cover illustration is a perfect fit for the story, dark and enchanting with ominous tones. The dark simplicity of the chapter opener line art adds just enough visual effect to connect with the storyline.

The Thickety: A Path Begins is not for children who are easily frightened, but will be a very compelling read for those who are looking for an age-appropriate, scary tale. Recommended for ages 10 and older.

Contains: Violence, witchcraft

Reviewed by Heather Hurley