4.22 AVERAGE


My 10-year-old and I talked about how the character development in this novel is pretty slim. That said we both really enjoyed the book and my daughter absolutely wants to read the rest of the series as do I. It’s a terrific book about a super strong girl. There’s not a lot of nuances but I really appreciated the scene when she gets her period. There is lots of warmth to many of the characters and good relationships, it’s just not that fleshed out.
adventurous hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Loved it that much that I "may have" never taken my school library copy back...

This was such an entertaining, quick read. I will definitely continue reading this series.

I adore Tamora Pierce's books. She writes original fantasy with very strong and believable female characters.

One of my wife's favorite series, so I had to read it. And I'm so glad I did! While this is very obviously a young reader's book in terms of reading level, I found that its pages were still filled with great characters, great plot, and was so modern in its writing! Can't wait to keep reading this series.

Perfect comfort/nostalgia read. Just finished for probably the 20-somethingth time and it just never gets old.

I love that this book has aged well. Its always nerve-wracking going back to a childhood favorite, but I read this book probably once every 3 years or so and it never ceases to entertain. This book follows Alanna through her first 4 years as a Page working towards her knighthood. One piece I particularly appreciated was the constant undercurrent of imposter syndrome she deals with, trying to decide if she'll ever be able to keep up with the boys despite being one of the most capable pages. As a kid I related, and as an adult in a male-dominated field I relate. An excellent book for any age.

Eleven-year-old Alana and her twin Tom are headed to their respective fates: training to be a knight for him, school for her. But she has a brilliant idea: what if instead of twin brother-and-sister, they were twin brothers? Then SHE could go to train for a knight, and her brother could pursue his studies in sorcery. Their distracted and distant father won't notice, and the two servants can be persuaded...

The beginning of a long and engaging series, the novel presents the physical challenge and companionship Alana (now Alan) finds at court as she works extra hard to overcome her size and strength shortcomings.

This series lacks the subtlety of later works (Trickster's Choice), but that makes it an ideal choice for younger readers.
adventurous

The book that got me into reading all those years ago. Still as excellent as ever. A nice easy read and, wow, what a hook to end on.