Book details
Passion and Poison: Tales Of Shape-Shifters, Ghosts, And Spirited Women
Description
"Giovanna undid her cloak, and it slipped to the ground. The sun was coming up over the edge of the sea, and the light caught the rubies around Giovanna's throat and set them on fire. Rafael could not take his eyes from those flaming stones. Giovanna reached behind her head to undo the clasp that held the rubies."Janice M. Del Negro's unique storyteller's voice enlivens this collection of eight original tales about strong, resolute females. Whether she's spinning a story about a brave housekeeper who does not suffer fools gladly or a woman who uses her wits to avenge her sister's death, she embroiders her tales with elegant language and vivid imagery. There are characters and settings that will chill the bones, from the skulls in a moonlit mausoleum to the apparition of a wealthy woman "in a cyclone of light and fog" to three cauldrons filled with hair, bones, and blood. Mysterious shape-shifters and ghostly figures appear, but the women here handle them with grace and conviction. Acting to achieve justice and fairness, these characters become heroines in the landscape of the imagination. An author's note is included.
Age
12-18
Text complexity
proficient
Length
64 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Storytelling: Janice M. Del Negro is known for her captivating storytelling style, which brings the tales of shape-shifters, ghosts, and spirited women to life. Readers will find themselves immersed in the rich narratives and the magical worlds she creates.
- Diverse Themes: The book explores a variety of themes through its supernatural and fantastical elements, such as identity, transformation, and the human experience. These themes are woven into the stories, providing depth and food for thought beyond the surface-level entertainment.
- Cultural Enrichment: The stories in 'Passion and Poison' often draw from folklore and mythology, offering readers a chance to experience different cultural perspectives and traditions related to the supernatural. This can broaden one's understanding and appreciation of storytelling across cultures.
- Empowerment and Inspiration: The collection features spirited women and their encounters with the supernatural, which can be empowering to readers. The characters often display strength, resilience, and ingenuity, serving as inspirational figures for those who enjoy reading about powerful female protagonists.