All We Hunger For

Gr 9 Up–Through trickery and sheer determination, Elara enters a high-stakes baking contest in a fantasy world riddled with corruption, where members of the working class are viewed as disposable and easily replaced. If her true identity were ever discovered, she would be removed without a second thought. This constant tension gives the story an ­undercurrent of danger that contrasts sharply with the warmth and ­creativity of baking ­itself. At its core, the novel explores familiar but effective themes: systemic corruption, class inequality, and the struggle of an ordinary person taking on powerful institutions. Elara’s position as an underdog makes her easy to root for, and the contest format provides a clear structure that keeps the story moving. Alongside the darker elements, the book also includes a charming romance subplot built on hidden identities, mutual attraction, and inevitable betrayal. These moments add levity and emotional investment, helping balance the heavier themes. The author makes the world understandable without overwhelming readers, and the emotional beats land where they should. However, the novel does stumble when it comes to character development beyond the protagonist. This lack of growth, combined with a plot that doesn’t always escalate as sharply as it could, may make the pacing feel slow for readers who prioritize character development. The characters have a variety of skin tones and sizes; several have brown skin, and Elara is described as having pale skin. ­