"Uprooted" is a high fantasy novel written by Naomi Novik. Published in 2015, the story takes place in the village of Dvernik in the nation of Polnya, guarded by a local wizard known as the Dragon. Every ten years, the Dragon selects a local girl as a tribute to protect the village from the malevolent forces lurking in the nearby woods.
The protagonist, seventeen-year-old Agnieszka, unexpectedly becomes the chosen tribute, despite the expectations that her more seemingly suitable friend, Kasia, would be selected. As Agnieszka navigates her new role, she discovers latent magical powers within herself, revealed by the Dragon.
The narrative unfolds with Agnieszka's journey into the woods, where she faces challenges, including demonic wolves and a dark energy that corrupts her friend Kasia. The story takes an unexpected turn as political intrigue and a quest for power unfold, involving Prince Marek, the Falcon, and a plot against the royal family.
As the characters confront the malevolent forces in the woods, Agnieszka's unique connection to magic and her willingness to sacrifice for the greater good become central themes. The novel delves into themes of power, sacrifice, and the consequences of human actions on the natural world.
"Uprooted" has received acclaim for its imaginative world-building, engaging plot, and well-developed characters. It has won several literary awards, including the Nebula Award for Best Novel, the Mythopoetic Award for Adult Literature, and the Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel. Naomi Novik's skillful storytelling and the novel's blend of fantasy, magic, and adventure make "Uprooted" a compelling and highly regarded work in the fantasy genre.
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