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492 pp.
| Candlewick
| June, 2005
|
TradeISBN 0-7636-2639-2$17.99
(3)
YA
Maerad, sixteen, escapes from slavery and discovers her true name and magical birthright in this first installment of a projected quartet. While the pacing is slow, fans of LeGuin and Tolkien will enjoy the novel's lyrical style and the richly detailed descriptions of the landscapes, inhabitants, culture, and politics of Maerad's world.
226 pp.
| McElderry
| March, 2005
|
TradeISBN 0-689-84426-3$16.95
(4)
4-6
At the age of twelve, Thorn learns he's the secret son of evil King Ranulf and good Isotta (whose father was deposed and then killed by Ranulf). Thorn and various companions search for a powerful amulet that will help drive out Ranulf. While the characters are mostly stereotypes, the story has enough humor and suspense to keep young fantasy readers engaged.
284 pp.
| Abrams/Amulet
| April, 2005
|
TradeISBN 0-8109-5857-0$16.95
(3)
YA
Chronicles of Faerie series.
The King of Faerie kidnaps Irish teen Findabhair to be his bride, and her American cousin Gwen chases the new royal couple across a contemporary Ireland where new technology and ancient beliefs hold equal sway. Well-rendered descriptions of green rural landscapes, a generous helping of Gaelic language and legends, and heartfelt romances for both cousins make this a crowd-pleasing tale.
228 pp.
| Putnam
| February, 2005
|
TradeISBN 0-399-23890-5$17.99
(3)
4-6
Timid, bookish Ælfwyn flees a marriage arranged by her uncle, King Edward of Wessex, and disguises herself as a boy bard named Far Traveler. Told in graceful prose and featuring believable, well-rounded characters, Ælfwyn's story showcases the complicated politics of tenth-century England. Her increasing confidence and her romance with a rebellious nobleman will pull readers along on her journey.