The darkest part of the forest

Black, H.  (2015).  The darkest part of the forest.  NY:  Little, Brown Books.

The tightest of friends, Hazel, Ben, and Jack, have made the best of it living in Fairfold.  It is a true tourist hot spot due to the magic that surrounds the town.  It holds a special, unbreakable casket that is located in the middle of the forest and is surround by faerie folk.  Inside the casket lies a beautiful creature who looks very much like a boy, but with horns.  The trio of friends have been warned never to act like the tourists or they will disappear like those before them.  The use a variety of talisman to protect them from what surrounds them. 

Hazel and Ben are brother and sister and often dreamt of being a valiant knight and a singer who can enchant with their tune.  There comes a time in the story when the boy in the casket has disappeared and they are now in fear of the monster who inhabits the forest.

The book has a magical fantasy quality, but is true to life as friendships are tested and the bond holds true.  The trio coming together is the true story and one cannot be the same without the other.  The friendship is what holds them together.  The book holds true to the mental and social development that is needed for young adults and early teens.  Suggested readings include Carry On by Rainbow Rowell and All the bright places by Jennifer Niven.