The Cold Is in Her Bones

Gr 7–10—The myth of Medusa is revisited in this haunting retelling. Milla resents her life of servitude on her family's isolated farm and balks at the idea of conforming to her parents' selfish wishes. Most women of Milla's acquaintance live compliant lives, serving the needs of their husbands. Meanwhile, the superstitious villagers tremble in fear of a demon's curse, which manifests itself as reptilian skin and snakes in the hair and results in the loss of its victims' souls. The arrival of a newcomer, Iris, offers lonely Milla something she's never had: a true friend. But Iris bears a dark secret—she's already been afflicted by the curse. When Milla's parents discover Iris's condition, they send her away to The Place, an awful fortress where demon-possessed young women are banished. Milla is determined to save her friend and sets out to free her. However, the curse has begun to spread to Milla, creating disturbing thoughts and physical changes in her. Part fairy tale and part allegory, the story pits serpents, witches, and demons against seemingly powerless female characters who must learn to speak up for themselves. The author has created a cautionary tale that warns against ignorance and shines a spotlight on feminism. Van Arsdale's writing will appeal to young adults with its strong themes of loyalty and friendship.