The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff is easily one of the most bizarre and macabre books (let alone YA) I’ve ever read. And I’ll admit it: I totally judged this book by its creepy and twisted cover. I mean, sharp metal implements hanging over a vintage baby carriage (aka death trap)? How can you not love that messed up juxtaposition?
Here’s a brief synopsis:
Mackie Doyle is not one of us. Though he lives in the small town of Gentry, he comes from a world of tunnels and black murky water, a world of living dead girls ruled by a little tattooed princess. He is a Replacement, left in the crib of a human baby sixteen years ago. Now, because of fatal allergies to iron, blood, and consecrated ground, Mackie is fighting to survive in the human world.
Mackie would give anything to live among us, to practice on his bass or spend time with his crush, Tate. But when Tate’s baby sister goes missing, Mackie is drawn irrevocably into the underworld of Gentry.
As for why it’ll keep you up at night, let’s just say the bizarre image on the cover reflects the strangeness within. Those who have read The Lottery by Shirley Jackson will recognize a similar theme, but Yovanoff makes it her own by linking it with fairy lore … but these aren’t your average fairies. In fact, they don’t really resemble any of the fairies I’ve encountered in other recent YA. While I’m no expert on fairy lore, I’m sure others will be able to pick out the subtle references.
The Replacement is bizarre, grotesque, disturbing and violent, and the strange writing style leaves readers wondering “WTH?”
In other words, it’s a perfect Halloween read.
Novel Novice 
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