But Zoe’s Tale isn’t really about the clash of mighty empires or rescuing loved ones from monsters, exciting as those parts are — it’s about Zoë. It’s about that time in our lives after we’ve come to grips with how the world sees us but we are still not sure how we see ourselves. It’s not about what you are, but finding out who you are. This whip-smart, often funny, and deeply moving novel portrays that journey of self-discovery to the satisfaction of adults young or otherwise.
Yup. There’s a reason why it’s called Zoe’s Tale: Because it’s about her.
Also, for those of you who want to keep up with io9’s other Hugo/Nebula reviews, bookmark this: it’s the site’s “Book Awards 2009” tag.