TL;DR
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare follows Clary Fray, who discovers she can see demons and must navigate a dangerous world to save her mother, blending action, romance, and supernatural elements.
What is City of Bones about
City of Bones, written by Cassandra Clare, introduces readers to a hidden world of demons and Shadowhunters. The story revolves around Clary Fray, a fifteen-year-old girl who discovers her hidden powers and is thrust into a mysterious and perilous world after her mother's sudden disappearance. Clare masterfully combines elements of action, romance, and the supernatural, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book is the first in The Mortal Instruments series, setting up an intricate universe filled with complex characters and dark secrets.
City of Bones 6 Key Takeaways
Clary Fray discovers she can see demons.
Fifteen-year-old Clary Fray realizes she has the ability to see demons and the Darkhunters who combat them. This revelation comes as she witnesses a murder committed by three teenagers with strange tattoos in the Pandemonium Club.
Clary's mother disappears.
Clary's world is further turned upside down when her mother mysteriously vanishes. This disappearance propels Clary into the dangerous world of Shadowhunters as she begins her quest to find her mother.
Clary meets Jace Wayland.
During her journey, Clary encounters Jace Wayland, a skilled Shadowhunter. Jace becomes an important ally, helping Clary navigate the Shadowhunter world and uncover the truth about her past.
Clary discovers hidden powers.
As Clary delves deeper into the Shadowhunter world, she uncovers hidden powers within herself. These abilities are crucial in her fight against the dark forces threatening her and her loved ones.
The battle against Valentine.
The climax of the story involves a confrontation with Valentine, a rogue Shadowhunter with sinister plans. Clary and her new allies must thwart his schemes to protect their world.
Revelation of Clary's lineage.
Towards the end of the book, significant revelations about Clary's lineage come to light, adding new layers to her identity and her role within the Shadowhunter universe.
Top City of Bones Quotes
- "All the stories are true."
- "To love is to destroy, and to be loved is to be the one destroyed."
- "The boy never cried again, and he never forgot what he’d learned: that to love is to destroy, and that to be loved is to be the one destroyed."
Who should read City of Bones?
City of Bones is ideal for young adults and fantasy lovers aged 12 and up. Readers who enjoy supernatural adventures, romance, and strong female protagonists will find this book particularly engaging.
City of Bones Best Reviews
- "City of Bones is a thrilling urban fantasy with a strong heroine, exciting adventure, and a compelling ensemble of characters." — School Library Journal
- "Cassandra Clare's writing is sharp and engaging, making City of Bones a page-turner from beginning to end." — Publishers Weekly
- "A captivating read that combines supernatural elements, romance, and action into a gripping narrative." — Kirkus Reviews
People also liked these summaries
City of Bones FAQs
What happens in the book City of Bones?
City of Bones follows Clary Fray as she discovers her hidden powers and becomes embroiled in a dangerous quest to save her mother, filled with action, romance, and supernatural elements.
Is the City of Bones book spicy?
The book contains moderate violence and minor swearing, with kissing being the most intimate interaction until the later books in the series, making it appropriate for tweens.
What age is the City of Bones appropriate for?
City of Bones is suitable for young fantasy lovers aged 12 and up.