(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Sam Nielson. The animals at his father's exotic Guiana zoo are the only creatures Marlin can speak to without stuttering. When an encounter with a mysterious black jaguar leaves him able to not only talk to the animals but also understand them, Marlin develops new empathy for the captive creatures. Both human and animal relationships are thoughtfully portrayed in this well-written historical fantasy set in the late eighteenth century.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(1) YA A full-scale biography treats the frustrated quest for El Dorado as a metaphor for Ralegh's life as a warrior, champion of North American colonialism, court favorite of Queen Elizabeth I, adventurer, and writer. The intelligent text is rich with drama, imagination, and occasional wry humor. Illustrated with maps and reproductions, this exemplary work features a time line and well-documented endnotes that add distinction to the book's already considerable strengths. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2000