TL;DR
Half Bad by Sally Green follows sixteen-year-old Nathan, a half-white, half-black witch, as he navigates a treacherous world where he is hunted for his lineage and seeks to unlock his magical powers while struggling with trust and identity.
What is Half Bad about
Half Bad is set in a contemporary England where witches exist secretly among humans, divided into two factions: the feared black witches and the more accepted white witches. Nathan, the protagonist, is the illegitimate son of a notorious black witch, Marcus, and possesses qualities from both sides, labeling him as 'half bad'. The narrative chronicles Nathan's desperate attempts to escape from his captors and seek out his father for the gifts that will help him embrace his true magical abilities. The book explores themes of alienation, the quest for identity, and the struggle against societal judgment.
Half Bad 5 Key Takeaways
Nathan's imprisonment and abuse.
Nathan is held captive, enduring physical and emotional abuse due to his mixed heritage, setting the stage for his struggle for freedom.
Nathan's quest for his father, Marcus.
Determined to uncover his magical potential, Nathan embarks on a dangerous journey to find his father, Marcus, believed to hold the key to his power.
Conflict with his identity and society's view of witches.
As Nathan navigates a world that sees him as an abomination, he faces inner turmoil about his identity and the expectations placed upon him.
Betrayal and trust issues in relationships.
Nathan struggles with trust, particularly with those closest to him, as past traumas and societal prejudices threaten to isolate him further.
The climactic confrontation at the end of the book.
Nathan's journey culminates in a gripping confrontation that tests his powers, his resolve, and the nature of his relationships.
Top Half Bad Quotes
- "I am not a monster. I am not a monster. I am not a monster."
- "You can’t be what you are not. You can’t pretend to be what you are not."
Who should read Half Bad?
Half Bad is suitable for young adults and readers who enjoy fantasy with darker themes. It appeals to those interested in stories of personal struggle, identity, and the complexities of societal expectations, offering insights into resilience and self-discovery.
Half Bad Best Reviews
- "Half Bad is a captivating debut that tackles complex themes of identity and belonging with a unique twist on the witching lore." - The Guardian
- "Sally Green's writing is gripping, with a raw intensity that keeps you turning pages late into the night." - Book Riot
People also liked these summaries
Half Bad FAQs
What age is the book Half Bad appropriate for?
Half Bad is recommended for readers aged 12 to 16, as it explores themes suitable for young adults.
Is Half Bad part of a series?
Yes, Half Bad is the first book in a trilogy written by Sally Green, followed by Half Wild and Half Lost.