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A review by lovelymisanthrope
We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry
adventurous
dark
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I picked this up because it is one of Kayla's favorite books, and I felt it was the most appropriate book to read during Lalathon.
"We Ride Upon Sticks" follows 1989 Danvers high school's field hockey team. The group seems to be on a winning streak, and they are determined to continue winning. Through research they learn some witchy tricks that will help them to find victory, but they quickly learn that all magic comes at a cost.
This book was strange, fun, and heart-warming all in one. One of my favorite aspects of this book was all of the historical homage to 1692 Salem, Massachusetts. I think the time of witches and especially in Salem, though dark, is really intriguing to learn about. Having all of the historical elements made the magic in the story feel all the more real.
This type of writing really reminded me of Grady Hendrix's style. There is such extreme horror, but it is so comical you want to laugh out loud instead of hiding under your covers.
The characters were a little crass for my personal liking. I think they were written well and are perfect for the intended tone of the story, but they were just a little much for my own enjoyment.
I have had this book on my radar for a long time, and I am excited I finally picked it up. I will definitely keep Quan Barry on my radar and perhaps pick up something new in the future.
"We Ride Upon Sticks" follows 1989 Danvers high school's field hockey team. The group seems to be on a winning streak, and they are determined to continue winning. Through research they learn some witchy tricks that will help them to find victory, but they quickly learn that all magic comes at a cost.
This book was strange, fun, and heart-warming all in one. One of my favorite aspects of this book was all of the historical homage to 1692 Salem, Massachusetts. I think the time of witches and especially in Salem, though dark, is really intriguing to learn about. Having all of the historical elements made the magic in the story feel all the more real.
This type of writing really reminded me of Grady Hendrix's style. There is such extreme horror, but it is so comical you want to laugh out loud instead of hiding under your covers.
The characters were a little crass for my personal liking. I think they were written well and are perfect for the intended tone of the story, but they were just a little much for my own enjoyment.
I have had this book on my radar for a long time, and I am excited I finally picked it up. I will definitely keep Quan Barry on my radar and perhaps pick up something new in the future.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Lesbophobia and Homophobia