Estimated read time: 5 min read
One Sentence Summary
A young woman must uncover family secrets and confront dark magic in order to break a curse that threatens her life.
Table of Contents
Introduction
"Extraordinary" is a captivating young adult novel written by Nancy Werlin. This gripping story takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, love, and the power of friendship. Werlin's masterful storytelling and relatable characters make this book a must-read for anyone who enjoys contemporary YA fiction.
Brief Synopsis
The plot of "Extraordinary" centers around Phoebe Rothchild, a high school student with an extraordinary secret. Phoebe comes from a long line of "Extraordinaries," individuals with unique abilities that manifest during their teenage years. These abilities can range from telekinesis to mind reading.
Set in the fictional town of Concord, Massachusetts, Phoebe's life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her own extraordinary power. Alongside her best friends, Mallory and Ben, Phoebe embarks on a journey to uncover the origin of her abilities and understand her place in a world filled with extraordinary individuals.
Main Characters
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Phoebe Rothchild | The protagonist of the story, Phoebe is a high school student who discovers she is an Extraordinary. She is determined and compassionate, always striving to help others. |
| Mallory Cho | Phoebe's best friend and fellow Extraordinary, Mallory is a talented artist with the ability to create lifelike drawings. She is fiercely loyal and protective of her friends. |
| Ben Davis | Another close friend of Phoebe, Ben is a gifted musician with the power to manipulate sound waves. He is kind-hearted and struggles with personal demons from his past. |
Summary of Story Points
Chapters 1-5: The Discovery
Phoebe begins to experience strange occurrences, like objects moving on their own. Confused and scared, she confides in Mallory and Ben, who reveal their own extraordinary abilities. Together, they research their family histories, hoping to uncover the truth behind their powers.
Chapters 6-10: Uncovering the Past
Phoebe discovers a hidden family diary that leads her to believe that her extraordinary abilities are passed down through generations. She learns about a secret society of Extraordinaries and becomes determined to find them.
Chapters 11-15: The Secret Society
Phoebe, Mallory, and Ben find themselves in the underground world of Extraordinaries. They meet other individuals with unique powers and learn about a prophecy that foretells the rise of a powerful Extraordinary. As they delve deeper into this hidden society, they uncover a dark secret that threatens their safety.
Chapters 16-20: The Battle Begins
Phoebe, Mallory, and Ben join forces with other Extraordinaries to prepare for an impending battle against a nefarious group known as the Dark Ones. They train rigorously to harness their powers and develop strategies to defeat their enemies.
Chapters 21-25: The Final Showdown
The climactic battle between the Extraordinaries and the Dark Ones takes place. Phoebe, Mallory, and Ben must use their abilities to protect themselves and their loved ones. Sacrifices are made, and the outcome of the battle will determine the fate of the Extraordinaries.
Main Events
- Phoebe discovers her extraordinary abilities and confides in Mallory and Ben.
- The trio uncovers their family histories and learns about the existence of a secret society of Extraordinaries.
- Phoebe, Mallory, and Ben delve into the underground world of Extraordinaries and discover a prophecy that predicts a powerful Extraordinary.
- The group trains and prepares for a battle against the Dark Ones, a group seeking to harm Extraordinaries.
- The climactic battle between the Extraordinaries and the Dark Ones takes place, with high stakes and sacrifices made.
Themes and Insights
- Identity and Self-Discovery: The novel explores the journey of self-discovery as Phoebe embraces her extraordinary abilities and learns to accept herself for who she truly is.
- Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Phoebe, Mallory, and Ben is tested throughout the story. Their unwavering support and loyalty to one another demonstrate the power of true friendship.
- Embracing Differences: "Extraordinary" celebrates individuality and highlights the importance of accepting and embracing one's unique qualities, even if they make someone different from others.
Reader's Takeaway
"Extraordinary" is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that captivates readers from start to finish. Nancy Werlin's vivid storytelling and well-developed characters make this book a page-turner. The themes of self-discovery, friendship, and acceptance resonate with readers of all ages, reminding us of the power within ourselves and the importance of embracing our differences.
Conclusion
"Extraordinary" by Nancy Werlin is an exceptional young adult novel that explores the journey of self-discovery and the power of friendship. With its relatable characters, gripping plot, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of contemporary YA fiction. Werlin's storytelling prowess shines through, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what she has in store for them next.
Extraordinary FAQ
What is the genre of 'Extraordinary'?
The genre of 'Extraordinary' is young adult fantasy.
Who is the author of 'Extraordinary'?
The author of 'Extraordinary' is Nancy Werlin.
What is the main premise of 'Extraordinary'?
'Extraordinary' follows the story of Phoebe Rothschild, a girl who discovers that she has inherited an extraordinary magical power and must learn to control it to save herself and those she loves.
Is 'Extraordinary' part of a series?
'Extraordinary' is a standalone novel and not part of a series.
What age group is 'Extraordinary' suitable for?
'Extraordinary' is suitable for young adult readers, typically aged 14 and above.
Are there any content warnings for 'Extraordinary'?
While 'Extraordinary' is generally appropriate for young adult readers, it does contain some intense scenes and themes, including magic, danger, and family secrets.
Where can I purchase a copy of 'Extraordinary'?
You can purchase a copy of 'Extraordinary' from various book retailers, both online and in physical stores. It is available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book formats.
Does 'Extraordinary' have any awards or accolades?
As of now, 'Extraordinary' has not received any major awards or accolades, but it has been well-received by readers and critics.
Does 'Extraordinary' have any discussion questions for book clubs?
Yes, there are discussion questions available for 'Extraordinary' that can be used by book clubs or reading groups. They can be found in the back of some editions or on the author's website.
