Uprooted

by Naomi Novik

Agnieszka loves her home of Dvernik even though it is nestled along the enchanted Wood. The Wood has destroyed villages, corrupted the townspeople, and its magic becomes stronger every year. The only way the town Dvernik has been able to survive is with the help of the Dragon. His magic ensures the people are safe and that the Wood does not creep any closer. The only thing he asks for in return is that each year a village girl who has turned 17 will live in the tower and serve him. She will come to no harm, but she will have to stay for ten years.

The year Agnieszka turns 17 she knows that she may very well be chosen; however, everyone knows her best friend Kasia is the prettiest, most elegant and accomplished of them all. Agnieszka on the other hand can't leave her home without ripping a hole in her skirt, or spilling something on herself. But the Dragon surprises them all and his choice will change everything.