Why read The Silence of Bones?

Book cover of The Silence of Bones

Book description

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…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked The Silence of Bones as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Yi Shun Lai

Author

I didn’t even know that indentured servitude to the police could be a thing for young women. Sure, sure, we’re talking about another place, another era—1800s Korea—but the immediacy with which Hur tells this story puts it right there for me.

She weaves exacting detail and information throughout this gripping mystery: If the premise didn’t already hook me, I’d be pulled in by the way this mystery rapidly turns personal for Seol, our heroine.

From Yi's list on The best books starring women and girls who rocked the boat.

Sarah Suk

Author

This atmospheric mystery novel is set in 1800, Joseon Dynasty Korea.

There were so many things that drew me into The Silence of Bones from the beautiful prose and the rich historical setting to the unraveling murder mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat. I’d highly recommend any of June Hur’s novels for a transporting, immersive experience, and this one is a great place to begin.

From Sarah's list on The best YA books that take you on a journey through South Korea.