Content report card
The Silence of Bones parent’s guide: what’s inside
LGBTQ+ themes
Substance use
What it offers
A note for parents
The Silence of Bones is a literary YA historical mystery set in 1800s Korea that earns its Edgar Allan Poe nomination through atmospheric tension and emotional weight rather than graphic content. While it deals with serious themes including murder, suicide references, and political danger, violence is not graphically depicted. The story rewards curiosity, loyalty, and moral courage, with the protagonist forming a meaningful bond across class lines; however, the dark atmosphere and heavy themes make it better suited for mature teens.
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From the publisher
June Hur's elegant and haunting debut The Silence of Bones is a bloody YA historical mystery tale perfect for fans of Kerri Maniscalco and Renée Ahdieh. I have a mouth, but I mustn't speak; Ears, but I mustn't hear; Eyes, but I mustn't see. 1800, Joseon (Korea). Homesick and orphaned sixteen-year-old Seol is living out... June Hur's elegant and haunting debut The Silence of Bones is a bloody YA historical mystery tale perfect for fans of Kerri Maniscalco and Renée Ahdieh. I have a mouth, but I mustn't speak; Ears, but I mustn't hear; Eyes, but I mustn't see. 1800, Joseon (Korea). Homesick and orphaned sixteen-year-old Seol is living out the ancient curse: "May you live in interesting times." Indentured to the police bureau, she's been tasked with assisting a well-respected young inspector with the investigation into the politically charged murder of a noblewoman. As they delve deeper into the dead woman's secrets, Seol forms an unlikely bond of friendship with the inspector. But her loyalty is tested when he becomes the prime suspect, and Seol may be the only one capable of discovering what truly happened on the night of the murder. But in a land where silence and obedience are valued above all else, curiosity can be deadly. Praise for The Silence of Bones: ABA Indies Introduce Selection Junior Library Guild Selection A 2021 Edgar Allan Poe Award Nominee A 2021 ALA Rise Selection 2020 Freeman Award Honorable Mention "At once haunting and evocative, June Hur's The Silence of Bones is a gorgeous, tightly-woven debut. Prepare to delve deep into the lush and dangerous world of Korea in the 1800's for a page-turner you won't soon forget." —Hafsah Faizal, New York Times-bestselling author of We Hunt the Flame " This gripping drama is definitely one you're not going to want to miss." — Buzzfeed
Shelved under
- Young Adult Fiction
- A mix driven
- Diverse Characters
- Strong Character Development
- Loveable Characters
- Weak Character Development
- Unloveable Characters
- mysterious
- dark
- emotional
- reflective
- Adventurous
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ISBN 9781250229564 · Macmillan + ORM