Tamora Pierce should be saluted for her many accomplished entries into the world of fantasy, not least of which is her steadfast reliance on capable, motivated, realistic FEMALE lead characters. Modern fantasy readers (especially us girls) have much to be grateful for - until pioneers like Pierce and McCaffrey broke through the 'crystal ceiling' seeing a HEROINE was achingly rare.
Besides her realization that ladies also like to have plucky role models, Pierce remains a talented writer. Fans of the Lioness Quartet will appreciate this "sequel" (but don't expect too much of Alanna - she's forbidden to speak to Kel!). Newcomers to the world of Tortall will find themselves welcomed, and making quick sense of a fairly traditional 'sword and sorcery' realm.
Other raters have noted the relative lightness of the tale, and the easy challenges that Kel must overcome. While I too have the same thoughts, I must remind readers that while these books can be read and enjoyed by ALL age groups, they were ORIGINALLY intended for the pre-teen group.
Personally, thinking back to childhood, the challenges seem quite age-appropriate, and could even relate to modern challenges. Kel sees and handles bullies, thinks about fairness and moral standards, sticks up for the underdog, and also deals with a personal phobia. Not bad for a 12 year old.
Other readers have taken issue with the 'flaws' in the medieval or derivative nature of the book. Even as an adult, however, people relate best to what they understand, and forcing a book for pre-teens into a 'realistic' portrayal of medieval society would be tiresome and BORING. Also, I find the inclusion of the Yamani (Japanese) culture to be refreshing, as it is treated as a source of strength for Kel, as well as a learning experience in dealing with culture differences.
As always, Pierce has done a wonderful job creating a girl-friendly world (even for a 26 year old girl!), written in a refreshing and engaging manner, without dumbing-down or condescending to her audience. Bravo.
** Very conservative parents, or those carefully monitoring their children's reading before "the talk" may wish to read this series (as well as the Alanna quartet, or ANY Pierce book) before letting their children start. As Kel grows older (the later books), her concerns naturally turn to teenage matters, and Pierce does not mince words. I found it still appropriate, and even sweet, but I know people are often careful of such things. Also later in the series, a fleeting mention is made of homosexuality. Finally, the later depictions of magic for defense and healing, and the use of necromancy (by the evil forces) are intense and fairly graphic. It is cruel to allow a child to start a series, then ban it later for containing information you'd rather not deal with. If these things bother you, be aware of them from the start and find other means to entertain your children.
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