The basis premise of this book I that a boy wants to learn spells and other magic like witches, but boys are expected to become shift-shapers. Witches can only be girls. There is lots of adventure, fantasy, action, conflict and interesting characters. It also challenges gender constructs and might really pique the interest of a student who doesn’t fit traditional gender norms or who need an opportunity to learn how to celebrate differences, There is a lot of “world building” in this novel that makes me infer that there may be a sequel in the future.