Helpful Score: 4
This is the first book in Pierce's "Protector of the Small" quartet. Kel is 10 years old, and ready to begin training to become a knight, inspired by her hero Alanna. (Alanna's story is told in the "Song of the Lioness" quartet.)
Unlike Alanna, who hid the fact that she was a girl while she went through the eight-year training cycle, Kel is the first girl to openly train for knighthood. She faces hardship, prejudice, but earns respect as she works hard to reach her goal.
I liked this quartet better than "Song of the Lioness." It seemed richer, better written, as if Ms. Pierce really hit her stride with this series. I love the fact that Kel is stubborn, determined, and modest. She is a great role model!
Unlike Alanna, who hid the fact that she was a girl while she went through the eight-year training cycle, Kel is the first girl to openly train for knighthood. She faces hardship, prejudice, but earns respect as she works hard to reach her goal.
I liked this quartet better than "Song of the Lioness." It seemed richer, better written, as if Ms. Pierce really hit her stride with this series. I love the fact that Kel is stubborn, determined, and modest. She is a great role model!
Helpful Score: 3
Once again I'm happy to be back in Tortall. A bit disappointed that Alanna doesn't get a more active role, but this is Kel's book after all. And it was a bit lacking in suspense (about whether or not Kel would get to return for a second year) since there are three books that come after this one. But the book was a quick read and a pleasant distraction from studies.
Helpful Score: 3
Even though this series is written with young teens in mind I loved it. My youngest daughter also thoroughly enjoyed this book, and the three others in the series. Now we are both big fans of Tamora Pierce.
Helpful Score: 1
Love the author and love the series!
Helpful Score: 1
This is another series about a heroine, Kel, who encounters the typical sexism showed by males towards females when she first begins her training to become a knight. Later, after being bullied herself, she makes it her business to deal with those who pick on others when she feels that the hazing has gone too far with fellow students.
It's a wonderful story about a girl who finds her way and doesn't take crap but does what she needs in order to succeed despite the obstacles in her way.
It's a wonderful story about a girl who finds her way and doesn't take crap but does what she needs in order to succeed despite the obstacles in her way.
