Scan barcode
A review by sara_hudson
Solimar : the Sword of the Monarchs by Pam Muñoz Ryan
5.0
First of all, it is 190 pages, not 272 pages - and that matters for my purposes. I loved this briskly told adventure story with a bit of magic and a nice dose of feminism. Not feminism that will frighten anyone - just putting girls and women as motivators of a story set in a patriarchal kingdom. And a well-done conservation story about the beauty and magic of butterflies.
Solimar is a fantastic character - a girl who knows her own mind, but understands the importance of family. A family who loves her and is kind and honorable. Berto is endearing as her partner in adventure. A talking doll and loyal bird round out the crew that must harness the magic of the monarchs to save their habitat - and Solimar's kingdom. Her big brother is also a fantastic character - finding his own way and allowing her to find hers. Great parents for a refreshing touch.
I am a fan of Esperanza Rising, Riding Freedom, Becoming Naomi Leon, and Mananaland - and this one is my favorite of the lot.
Solimar is a fantastic character - a girl who knows her own mind, but understands the importance of family. A family who loves her and is kind and honorable. Berto is endearing as her partner in adventure. A talking doll and loyal bird round out the crew that must harness the magic of the monarchs to save their habitat - and Solimar's kingdom. Her big brother is also a fantastic character - finding his own way and allowing her to find hers. Great parents for a refreshing touch.
I am a fan of Esperanza Rising, Riding Freedom, Becoming Naomi Leon, and Mananaland - and this one is my favorite of the lot.