For teens eager to uncover a hidden world, this story follows a young woman discovering her true identity, powers, and place in a fight against ancient evil.
A parent might reach for this book for a teen who feels ordinary and craves an escape into a world brimming with magic, danger, and romance. City of Bones plunges readers into a hidden New York, where demon-slaying warriors called Shadowhunters protect humanity from the forces of darkness. When Clary Fray's mother is kidnapped, she discovers she is one of them. The story explores themes of identity, bravery, loyalty, and the complex nature of family. It's an action-packed urban fantasy perfect for teens 13 and up who are ready for supernatural violence, romantic tension, and a sprawling world to get lost in. It is an excellent choice for a reluctant reader looking for a fast-paced, high-stakes series to kickstart a love of reading.
Secondary and minor characters are killed. The threat of death is constant for the main characters.
Romantic ContentModerate
Strong romantic tension, kissing, and a complicated love triangle. A major plot twist is disturbing.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with fantastical violence and the death of secondary characters. Identity is a core theme, as Clary must grapple with a hidden heritage and powers she never knew she had. Parental deception is a major plot point, as Clary learns her mother lied to her for years for protection. The mythology is secular fantasy, centered on angels and demons as distinct races rather than religious figures. The book ends on a major, emotionally fraught cliffhanger, but Clary's journey throughout is one of growing empowerment.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is aged 13 to 17 and loves urban fantasy, intricate world-building, and a blend of action, romance, and mystery. They likely enjoyed series like Twilight or The Hunger Games and are looking for their next big saga. This book is perfect for a reader who enjoys a strong female protagonist who grows into her power, a sarcastic and brooding love interest, and a complex magical society with its own rules and history.
Parent Prep
Parents should be aware of the level of fantasy violence, which is frequent and sometimes graphic. The central romance involves significant tension and a major, psychologically complex twist at the end involving incest (this is eventually retconned in later books, but is presented as fact here). A significant male character is also coming to terms with his same-sex attraction, which is handled as a core part of his character arc. These elements might warrant a conversation depending on the family's values. A parent has a teen who says they are bored with realistic fiction and wants something exciting and magical. The teen might be showing interest in fantasy shows or movies, and the parent is looking for a popular, engrossing book series to get them hooked on reading.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely be captivated by the action, the discovery of the Shadow World, the cool factor of the runes and weapons, and the central romance. An older teen (15-17) may engage more deeply with the themes of prejudice between Shadowhunters and Downworlders, the moral grayness of the ruling Clave, and the complicated motivations of the villain, Valentine.
What Makes It Special
While part of the 2000s urban fantasy boom, City of Bones stands out for its unique and detailed mythology. The concept of the Nephilim, the intricate runic magic system, and the well-developed political structure of the Clave and Downworld created a new standard for world-building in the genre. Its blend of gothic horror, high action, and snarky, contemporary dialogue was a defining combination for YA fantasy.
Read plot summary
Fifteen-year-old Clary Fray's life is upended when her mother is abducted and she is attacked by a demon. She is rescued by Jace Wayland, a Shadowhunter: a half-angel, half-human warrior who hunts demons. Clary is drawn into their hidden world within New York City, discovering she is also a Shadowhunter. Alongside Jace and his companions Isabelle and Alec, and with her human best friend Simon in tow, Clary must navigate a world of vampires, werewolves, and warlocks to find her mother and locate the Mortal Cup, a powerful artifact sought by the villainous Valentine Morgenstern.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Clary's mother, Jocelyn, hid the Shadow World from her for years to keep her safe. Do you think this was the right decision? Why or why not?
2
Jace is often sarcastic and puts up a tough front. Why do you think he acts this way, and how does his behavior change when he is with Clary?
3
The Shadowhunters and Downworlders have a history of mistrust. Do you think the Accords are a fair system? How does Simon's perspective as a mundane challenge the Shadowhunters' views?
4
At the end of the book, Clary and Jace receive shocking news about their family. How did this revelation make you feel, and how do you think it will affect their relationship going forward?
