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(4)
YA
Bucephalas, the finest horse in the stable, narrates this tale of Alexander the Great and his rise to power. His equine perspectives and interpretations of events and relationships are insightful but grow repetitive before the book ends. The deep bond shared by Bucephalas, Alexander, and a mysterious girl groom forms the heart of this historical tale touched with fantasy. Bib.
(4)
4-6
Echorium Sequence series.
In this third book in the series a young girl's loyalties are tested when she discovers that she is the daughter of Frazhin, the previous books' villain. The other main character is a quetzal--a half-bird, half-man creature--who helps bring about Frazhin's downfall. Readers may have trouble sorting out all of the characters involved in the complex plot, but the fantasy world is unique and interesting. Glos.
(4)
4-6
Echorium Sequence series.
When a strange girl named Shaiala arrives on the Isle of Echoes, twenty years after the events in Song Quest, Kherron recognizes the evil work of his old nemesis. Although the writing style is unremarkable and Shaiala's awkward speech pattern makes some of the prose clumsy, the unique fantastical beings and exciting action make this an interesting sequel. Glos.
250 pp.
| Scholastic
| September, 2001
|
TradeISBN 0-439-29653-6$$15.95
(4)
4-6
Kidnapped by a Spellmage named Hawk, twelve-year-old Natalie joins forces with Hawk's son in an attempt to foil the mage's evil plan. In the process, she discovers her own magical heritage and helps save the realm of Earthaven. The plot falters partway through, but the fantasy's unique elements and interesting characters help the story maintain momentum.