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A Deadly Education

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Naomi Novik

A Deadly Education

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Scholomance • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik follows Galadriel "El," a half-Welsh, half-Indian loner navigating her third year at Scholomance, a perilous magical school filled with deadly maleficaria. El works hard to build mana for her spells without resorting to malia. Her life takes a turn when she forms an alliance with Orion Lake, a mal-fighting hero, leading to unexpected friendships and challenges. The novel contains instances of racial and ethnic sensitivity.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

201,926 ratings

74%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Naomi Novik's A Deadly Education immerses readers in a dark, magical school with a compelling main character, El. The novel is praised for its inventive world-building and witty prose, though some find the plot uneven and critique a lack of character development. Overall, it's an engaging read for fans of inventive fantasy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Deadly Education?

A reader who enjoys dark academia, magical school settings, and morally complex characters would relish A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik. Comparable to fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and Lev Grossman's The Magicians, this book will captivate those who appreciate intricate world-building and intense, character-driven narratives.

4.3

201,926 ratings

74%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Galadriel (El)

El is the novel's protagonist and narrator, known for her internal intelligence and thoughtfulness juxtaposed with an external demeanor that's often perceived as abrasive and scary.

Orion is El's first friend and potential romantic interest, characterized by his bravery, social awkwardness, and a natural ability to deal with dangerous creatures.

Aadhya is a strategic and socially skilled student who values loyalty and forms a collaborative alliance with El, enhancing their access to resources within the school.

Liu is a shy and kind student who initially dabbles in dark magic but becomes part of El and Aadhya’s alliance, revealing her nurturing nature.

Gwen is El’s mother, known for her healing powers and mana-focused practice, who is depicted as brave, selfless, and greatly respected.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Scholomance • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

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