Dance of the Red Death

October 1, 2013

Gr 9 Up-This retelling of Edgar Allan Poe's classic story begins exactly where Masque of the Red Death (HarperCollins, 2012) left off. Araby, Elliot, and Will have fled the contaminated city in a steam-powered airship. The weeping sickness that decimated much of the population continues to spread, though it is now accompanied by a new, more deadly plague, the Red Death. With Araby's best friend beginning to show signs of the illness, the three are in a race against time to find a cure. Caught between affection for Will and Elliot, and haunted by her father's involvement with the prince (who played a hefty hand in the spread of the plague), Araby spends much of the novel determining whom to trust. In the end, she learns she must have faith in herself. This once-shallow, drug-addicted, party queen transforms into a strong, empowered rebel. Teens who have read Poe's story will be familiar with the ending as Araby returns to the prince's palace and enters a deadly game to determine the fate of the city. Griffin has successfully turned the short story into the type of YA saga that flies off the shelves. It is timely, well written, and quick paced. Steampunk fans are likely to appreciate the world of corsets, invention, and excess, so beautifully drawn in this novel. In addition to being a fantastic read, this two-part saga would serve as a great companion to classroom units on Poe.-Jennifer Furuyama, Pendleton Public Library, OR

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