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City of Bones

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Cassandra Clare

City of Bones

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

485

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL710L

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Super Short Summary

City of Bones follows 15-year-old Clary Fray, who discovers she is descended from Shadowhunters, a race of half-angel demon hunters after witnessing a demon attack in New York City. As her mother goes missing, Clary enters a world of magic and danger, befriending Shadowhunters and uncovering family secrets. The plot features themes of violence and loss.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Fantastical

Romantic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

2,069,430 ratings

74%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare captivates readers with its imaginative urban fantasy world and engaging characters. The novel is praised for its fast-paced plot and intricate mythology, though some critics note its use of familiar tropes and predictability. Overall, it offers a compelling beginning to the Mortal Instruments series that appeals to young adult audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read City of Bones?

Readers who enjoy intricate urban fantasy, young adult drama, and fast-paced action will be captivated by City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. Fans of Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling and Twilight by Stephenie Meyer will appreciate its blend of magic, romance, and adventure. Expect a world of supernatural intrigue and complex relationships.

4.3

2,069,430 ratings

74%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Clary (Clarissa) Fray

A teenager who discovers her supernatural heritage and must navigate the Shadow world, where her memories have been concealed.

A confident and skilled Shadowhunter who becomes one of Clary's love interests and grapples with hidden self-doubt.

Clary's best friend and the "boy next door," who feels out of place among the Shadowhunters but proves his worth through quick thinking.

A tall and striking Shadowhunter who uses her beauty and confidence skillfully, but learns to see Clary as an ally rather than a rival.

Isabelle's brother and Jace's best friend, who struggles with acceptance in Shadowhunter society and his abilities in combat.

The antagonist with extremist views on Shadowhunter superiority, whose past actions heavily influence the story.

An immortal warlock who uses his magical talents to assist Clary and the Shadowhunters, possessing a unique warlock mark.

The tutor at the New York Institute who desires freedom from a curse and unintentionally causes harm in pursuit of that goal.

A former Shadowhunter turned werewolf who looks out for Clary and her mother, protecting them from various dangers.

A human neighbor familiar with the Shadow world, tasked with safeguarding a crucial artifact.

A Silent Brother residing in the City of Bones, wielding significant power and knowledge within Shadowhunter society.

Clary's mother, whose history with Valentine influences her protective actions toward Clary and their connection to the Shadow world.

Book Details
Pages

485

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL710L

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