Three Dark Crowns

The first of four books in the “Three Dark Crowns” series, this lyrical novel transports readers to a world where each generation, a set of triplets is born to the queen; and on their sixteenth birthdays, they must fight to the death for the crown. Each queen possesses particular magical gifts and abilities, inviting readers to reflect on societal views on diversity. Descriptive writing and a furious energy that will capture high-school readers’ attention will expose the way that power can corrupt. In the classroom, this high-fantasy novel may encourage discussions about perspective, loyalty, fate, social roles, power, and belief systems. Students may be prompted to analyze the characters, symbolism, and elements of prose in the novel. Its themes and characters can be compared with contemporary stories, actual events, and people.