TWILIGHT
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Meyer, Stephenie. 2005. Twilight. New York, NY: Megan Tingley Books. ISBN 9780316160179
B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Stephenie Meyer has written a novel in which forbidden love draws her protagonist to the other. “Meyer adds an eerie new twist to the mismatched, star-crossed lovers theme: predator falls for prey, human falls for vampire.” (SLJ) The protagonist, Bella, is your typical teenager who feels she doesn’t quite fit in. She dresses plainly and enjoys a quieter existence among her peers. “Bella embodies the girl who has been "average" for so long that she no longer sees anything remarkable about herself.” (Kirkus Review) Edward Cullen is pale with noticeable features. Dark eyes with purplish shadows around as if painted by “an old master as the face of an angel.” (p. 19) “Edward Cullen, beautiful beyond belief and angrily aloof.” (Booklist) Bella desires Edward. "Drawn by his irresistible good looks and animal magnetism, Bella finds herself falling in love with Edward and determines to unveil the true person behind the impenetrable facade." (Horn Book)
Meyer provides the perfect setting for her novel to take place, Washington State, in a small town called Forks. The weather in this town supplies the ideal blend for this eerie novel, constant cover of clouds, rain, and hardly any sunshine. The location provides the gloom, mysterious, and ominous background for the dangerous and forbidden romance to take place. The novel takes the reader into the forested areas that surround Forks. In the woods readers will come to find out that there are myths about vampires. One myth in particular that is not true is that vampires hate the sun. Bella discovers that the sun reveals their mysticism. He becomes a beautiful, diamond glittering, glowing, beauty. “A perfect statue, carved in some unknown stone, smooth like marble, glittering like crystal.” (p.260) The only way Edward is able to fully reveal himself to Bella is when they are alone with nature.
The plot, although fantasy, is somewhat believable. The reader is drawn in by the words of this remarkable author. I found myself constantly remarking how smooth of a writer she is for a first time novelist. “Don’t be afraid, “he murmured, his velvet voice unintentionally seductive.” I promise…” he hesitated. “I swear not to hurt you.” He seemed more concerned with convincing himself than me.” (p. 264) Young girls are immediately attracted to this forbidden, gentle, caring, vampire, believing that this quest could be possible. The author also sets the stage by describing how Bella was predestined to become a vampire. She notes that Bella’s skin color is usually “almost translucent-looking” but here in Forks, “she had no color at all.” (p.10) A foreshadowing of her life to come. Bella doesn’t relate well to kids her own age or for that matter people in general. This explains to the reader that Bella will fit in to the life of vampire solitude. Then the author describes an unusual trait that Bella possesses. “I smelled blood,” “People can’t smell blood,” he contradicted. “Well, I can--- it smells like rust…and salt.” (p.100) Again, Bella is described as being born with qualities that will easily lend her to the life she desires with Edward.
Meyers clearly set the theme of self transformation. Edwards family, although vampires, have each carefully reinvented themselves. They are civil abiding citizens who not only care for humans, but for the environment as well. When discussing how they “eat” Edward tells Bella, “We have to be careful not to impact the environment with injudicious hunting. We try to focus on areas with an over population of predators…” (p. 215) Edward goes on to explain to Bella how his adopted father transformed himself and how as a family they firmly believe: “Just because we’ve been…dealt a certain hand…it doesn’t’ mean that we can’t choose to rise above -- to conquer the boundaries of a destiny that none of us wanted.” (p. 307) The author explains through Edwards character how each individual can control our evil desires. “I could kill you quite easily, Bella, simply by accident.” I can never, never afford to lose any kind of control when I’m with you.” (p. 310) Edward is able to contain atrocious desires in order to have what he most desires, Bella. Bella and Edward declare their love for one another. “I love you more than everything else in the world combined. Isn’t that enough?” “Yes, it is enough,” he answered, smiling. “Enough for forever.” (p.498)
While I believe in Meyer’s theme of self transformation, the belief that we can change our destinies and renew our lives, I still wasn’t thrilled with the message the young adults receive from this story. In my opinion, I’m not thrilled with giving the perception to young girls that if the boy is quote “dangerous” but as long as he is kind and gentle to you that you should follow your desires. But, that is just my opinion. As far as young teen readers are concerned they will find this novel tantalizing and sure to please.
C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
New York Times Editor's Choice
Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
Amazon "Best Book of the Decade...So Far"
A Teen People "Hot List" pick
Booklist: Their love is palpable, heightened by their touches, and teens will respond viscerally. There are some flaws here--a plot that could have been tightened, an overreliance on adjectives and adverbs to bolster dialogue--but this dark romance seeps into the soul.
School Library Journal: Bella and Edward's struggle to make their relationship work becomes a struggle for survival, especially when vampires from an outside clan infiltrate the Cullen territory and head straight for her. As a result, the novel's danger-factor skyrockets as the excitement of secret love and hushed affection morphs into a terrifying race to stay alive. Realistic, subtle, succinct, and easy to follow, Twilight will have readers dying to sink their teeth into it.
Kirkus Review: Edward's portrayal as monstrous tragic hero is overly Byronic, and Bella's appeal is based on magic rather than character. Nonetheless, the portrayal of dangerous lovers hits the spot; fans of dark romance will find it hard to resist.
D. CONNECTIONS
*Have students make a suggested list of songs that Bella or Edward would have on their MP3 player.
*Discus forbidden love. What does it mean?
*List the pros and cons of Bella staying with Edward.
Visit Stephenie Meyers Official Website at: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/twilightseries.html
Other novels in this series:
New Moon. ISBN: 9780316024969
Eclipse. ISBN: 9780316160209
Breaking Dawn. ISBN: 9780316067928
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pfeffer, Susan Beth. 2008. The Dead & The Gone. Orlando, FL: Harcourt Books. ISBN 9780152063115
B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Susan Pfeffer has written a science fiction novel that offers an eerie look into a very plausible future scenario. The plot of the story has the protagonist, a seventeen year old boy named Alex, confronted with an extremely difficult situation. The moon has been knocked out of orbit by an asteroid and is causing chaos in the world. I found it incredibly convincing how Pfeffer uses the moon in this novel. With this occurrence, tides are affected and begin the process in which “the planet is rocked by famine, floods, freezing temperatures and widespread disease.” (Publishers Weekly) As I read through the book I kept imagining what I would do if my family were put through this situation. Alex’s parents are missing. “Alex suddenly faces the reality of survival and the obligation to protect his two younger sisters. His moral and religious upbringing is continually put to the test as he finds himself forced to take action that is often gruesome if not unethical—like situations.” (Kirkus Review)
The setting takes place in New York and Pfeffer does an excellent job of describing streets, places, and situations that make not only the setting but the plot credible. “She accurately and knowingly depicts New York City from bodegas to boardrooms, and even the far-fetched science upon which the novel hinges seems well researched.” (SLJ) The reader can envision through her graphic description of events the reality of life Alex now lives. Alex visits Yankee Stadium searching among the dead bodies for his lost mother. “Then came the smells, unlike anything he’d ever known, a sickening combination of vomit, body odor, and rotting meat.” (p. 62) “Readers will be gripped and horrified by descriptions of the smells, sounds, and desperation.” (Library Media Connection) The setting moves the reader into this imaginary world of despair. "Pfeffer creates tension not only through her protagonist's day-to-day struggles but also through chilling moral dilemmas: whether to rob the dead, who to save during a food riot, how long to preserve the hope that his parents might return." (Publisher Weekly) The novel is candid with the gruesome possibilities of what it would take to survive an ordeal such as this. Ethics, morals, and rules are sometimes thrown out the window in order to avoid the inevitable.
The theme of this novel is family, faith, and resilience. Alex and his two sisters have to rely on each other to survive. Their faith also plays a huge part in their survival skills. “Religion is one of the strong threads running through the novel.” (Booklist) Not knowing where else to turn Alex runs to Father Franco who replies: “We must pray for Christ’s mercy,” he said. “I don’t know what else to tell you.” (p. 49) The kids are forced to grow up fast. Alex states of his sister Julie, “Her baby days were over. The world had no more room for twelve-year-old babies." (p. 98) As they begin to mature fast they continue to lean on each other and their faith. They each pray, attend mass, and seek God for strength. Alex states, “Forgive me for ever thinking I can do what I must alone, without Your guidance and Your love. (p. 185) As the novel continues the reader will come to understand the blessing we have at the moment. Young Adult readers will realize that life can change with a blink of an eye. No one is ever promised tomorrow. I believe Alex states it best when he says, “I was so spoiled, he thought. I had so much and I didn’t appreciate it. I always wanted more.” (p. 300) The author gives a very vivid picture of how drastic life could change. “I was gripped in a panic as I read this book that didn’t dissipate after I finished it. It hits very close to home…” (Library Media Connection)
I highly recommend this book with caution. If a young adult reader is not ready to hear plausible scientific situations that could occur then I would not recommend this novel. “…what Pfeffer writes about seems wrenchingly plausible.(Booklist) The powerful images and wrenching tragedies will haunt readers.(Publishers Weekly)
C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Booklist: The story’s power, as in the companion book, comes from readers’ ability to picture themselves in a similar situation.
School Library Journal: The characters evolve as the city decomposes, and the author succeeds in showing their heroism without making them caricatures of virtue. This fast-paced, thoughtful story is a good pick for melodrama fiends and reluctant readers alike.
Kirkus Review: …realistically bone-chilling despair and death join with the larger question of how the haves and have-nots of a major metropolitan city will ultimately survive in an increasingly lawless, largely deserted urban wasteland. Incredibly engaging.
D. CONNECTIONS
*Make a list of necessary items needed to survive a similar event for your family.
*Create a poem that describes the despair Alex and his sisters are facing.
*Discuss the plausibility of an event such as the moon being hit by an asteroid.
Follow Susan Beth Pfeffer with her Blog Website at: http://susanbethpfeffer.blogspot.com/2007/11/my-preliminary-notes-about-dead-gone.html
*1st Book in Series:
Life As We Knew It. 2008. ISBN: 9780152061548
The only problem I had with the story is that I kept wondering how in the world her companions did not guess she was a boy. Was her voice deep? Did she walk like a man? How did she learn to completely disguise herself so well? It was a tad unbelievable to me but then again, this is fantasy at its finest. Then when we learn that some are beginning to realize that she is a girl no one has a fit, wants her beheaded, or seems angry about being deceived. Disguising herself as a boy was a burden to Alanna. “The only thing she still looked forward to was the relief of telling everyone who she was.” (p. 174) Then in the story this phrase helped the story make sense to me. “You have learned the laws of Chivalry… Keep them in your heart. Use them as your guides when things are their darkest. They will not fail you if you interpret them with humanity and kindness. A knight is gentle. A knights’ first duty is to understand.” (p. 178) I assume that since the other men where knights there job was to “understand” why Alanna disguised herself and was the reason why they were so accepting of this revelation.
As stated by SLJ, this novel is a “timeless story of magic, adventure, and a strong female character.”
C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
School Library Journal: Alanna of Trebond continues her masquerade as Alan in this, the second book in the Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce. The story spans Alanna's fours years as Prince Jonathan's squire. During this time, Alanna participates in her first war, battles against Jonathan's evil uncle, Duke Roger, meets the Great Mother Goddess and experiences first love, all the while maintaining her guise as a boy.
D. CONNECTIONS
*Research the laws of chivalry, do they exist today? If so, in what form?
*Why was Alanna afraid of love?
*Write a poem that describes the strength and character of Alanna.
Visit Tamora Pierce at her website: http://www.tamora-pierce.com/books.html
Other books in the series:
Book 1: Alanna: The First Adventure. 2005. ISBN: 978-0689878558
Book 3: The Woman Who Rides Like A Man. 2005. ISBN: 978-0689878589
Book 4: Lioness Rampant. 2006. ISBN: 978-0689878572
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Meyer, Stephenie. 2005. Twilight. New York, NY: Megan Tingley Books. ISBN 9780316160179
B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Stephenie Meyer has written a novel in which forbidden love draws her protagonist to the other. “Meyer adds an eerie new twist to the mismatched, star-crossed lovers theme: predator falls for prey, human falls for vampire.” (SLJ) The protagonist, Bella, is your typical teenager who feels she doesn’t quite fit in. She dresses plainly and enjoys a quieter existence among her peers. “Bella embodies the girl who has been "average" for so long that she no longer sees anything remarkable about herself.” (Kirkus Review) Edward Cullen is pale with noticeable features. Dark eyes with purplish shadows around as if painted by “an old master as the face of an angel.” (p. 19) “Edward Cullen, beautiful beyond belief and angrily aloof.” (Booklist) Bella desires Edward. "Drawn by his irresistible good looks and animal magnetism, Bella finds herself falling in love with Edward and determines to unveil the true person behind the impenetrable facade." (Horn Book)
Meyer provides the perfect setting for her novel to take place, Washington State, in a small town called Forks. The weather in this town supplies the ideal blend for this eerie novel, constant cover of clouds, rain, and hardly any sunshine. The location provides the gloom, mysterious, and ominous background for the dangerous and forbidden romance to take place. The novel takes the reader into the forested areas that surround Forks. In the woods readers will come to find out that there are myths about vampires. One myth in particular that is not true is that vampires hate the sun. Bella discovers that the sun reveals their mysticism. He becomes a beautiful, diamond glittering, glowing, beauty. “A perfect statue, carved in some unknown stone, smooth like marble, glittering like crystal.” (p.260) The only way Edward is able to fully reveal himself to Bella is when they are alone with nature.
The plot, although fantasy, is somewhat believable. The reader is drawn in by the words of this remarkable author. I found myself constantly remarking how smooth of a writer she is for a first time novelist. “Don’t be afraid, “he murmured, his velvet voice unintentionally seductive.” I promise…” he hesitated. “I swear not to hurt you.” He seemed more concerned with convincing himself than me.” (p. 264) Young girls are immediately attracted to this forbidden, gentle, caring, vampire, believing that this quest could be possible. The author also sets the stage by describing how Bella was predestined to become a vampire. She notes that Bella’s skin color is usually “almost translucent-looking” but here in Forks, “she had no color at all.” (p.10) A foreshadowing of her life to come. Bella doesn’t relate well to kids her own age or for that matter people in general. This explains to the reader that Bella will fit in to the life of vampire solitude. Then the author describes an unusual trait that Bella possesses. “I smelled blood,” “People can’t smell blood,” he contradicted. “Well, I can--- it smells like rust…and salt.” (p.100) Again, Bella is described as being born with qualities that will easily lend her to the life she desires with Edward.
Meyers clearly set the theme of self transformation. Edwards family, although vampires, have each carefully reinvented themselves. They are civil abiding citizens who not only care for humans, but for the environment as well. When discussing how they “eat” Edward tells Bella, “We have to be careful not to impact the environment with injudicious hunting. We try to focus on areas with an over population of predators…” (p. 215) Edward goes on to explain to Bella how his adopted father transformed himself and how as a family they firmly believe: “Just because we’ve been…dealt a certain hand…it doesn’t’ mean that we can’t choose to rise above -- to conquer the boundaries of a destiny that none of us wanted.” (p. 307) The author explains through Edwards character how each individual can control our evil desires. “I could kill you quite easily, Bella, simply by accident.” I can never, never afford to lose any kind of control when I’m with you.” (p. 310) Edward is able to contain atrocious desires in order to have what he most desires, Bella. Bella and Edward declare their love for one another. “I love you more than everything else in the world combined. Isn’t that enough?” “Yes, it is enough,” he answered, smiling. “Enough for forever.” (p.498)
While I believe in Meyer’s theme of self transformation, the belief that we can change our destinies and renew our lives, I still wasn’t thrilled with the message the young adults receive from this story. In my opinion, I’m not thrilled with giving the perception to young girls that if the boy is quote “dangerous” but as long as he is kind and gentle to you that you should follow your desires. But, that is just my opinion. As far as young teen readers are concerned they will find this novel tantalizing and sure to please.
C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
New York Times Editor's Choice
Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
Amazon "Best Book of the Decade...So Far"
A Teen People "Hot List" pick
Booklist: Their love is palpable, heightened by their touches, and teens will respond viscerally. There are some flaws here--a plot that could have been tightened, an overreliance on adjectives and adverbs to bolster dialogue--but this dark romance seeps into the soul.
School Library Journal: Bella and Edward's struggle to make their relationship work becomes a struggle for survival, especially when vampires from an outside clan infiltrate the Cullen territory and head straight for her. As a result, the novel's danger-factor skyrockets as the excitement of secret love and hushed affection morphs into a terrifying race to stay alive. Realistic, subtle, succinct, and easy to follow, Twilight will have readers dying to sink their teeth into it.
Kirkus Review: Edward's portrayal as monstrous tragic hero is overly Byronic, and Bella's appeal is based on magic rather than character. Nonetheless, the portrayal of dangerous lovers hits the spot; fans of dark romance will find it hard to resist.
D. CONNECTIONS
*Have students make a suggested list of songs that Bella or Edward would have on their MP3 player.
*Discus forbidden love. What does it mean?
*List the pros and cons of Bella staying with Edward.
Visit Stephenie Meyers Official Website at: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/twilightseries.html
Other novels in this series:
New Moon. ISBN: 9780316024969
Eclipse. ISBN: 9780316160209
Breaking Dawn. ISBN: 9780316067928
THE DEAD & THE GONE
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pfeffer, Susan Beth. 2008. The Dead & The Gone. Orlando, FL: Harcourt Books. ISBN 9780152063115
B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Susan Pfeffer has written a science fiction novel that offers an eerie look into a very plausible future scenario. The plot of the story has the protagonist, a seventeen year old boy named Alex, confronted with an extremely difficult situation. The moon has been knocked out of orbit by an asteroid and is causing chaos in the world. I found it incredibly convincing how Pfeffer uses the moon in this novel. With this occurrence, tides are affected and begin the process in which “the planet is rocked by famine, floods, freezing temperatures and widespread disease.” (Publishers Weekly) As I read through the book I kept imagining what I would do if my family were put through this situation. Alex’s parents are missing. “Alex suddenly faces the reality of survival and the obligation to protect his two younger sisters. His moral and religious upbringing is continually put to the test as he finds himself forced to take action that is often gruesome if not unethical—like situations.” (Kirkus Review)
The setting takes place in New York and Pfeffer does an excellent job of describing streets, places, and situations that make not only the setting but the plot credible. “She accurately and knowingly depicts New York City from bodegas to boardrooms, and even the far-fetched science upon which the novel hinges seems well researched.” (SLJ) The reader can envision through her graphic description of events the reality of life Alex now lives. Alex visits Yankee Stadium searching among the dead bodies for his lost mother. “Then came the smells, unlike anything he’d ever known, a sickening combination of vomit, body odor, and rotting meat.” (p. 62) “Readers will be gripped and horrified by descriptions of the smells, sounds, and desperation.” (Library Media Connection) The setting moves the reader into this imaginary world of despair. "Pfeffer creates tension not only through her protagonist's day-to-day struggles but also through chilling moral dilemmas: whether to rob the dead, who to save during a food riot, how long to preserve the hope that his parents might return." (Publisher Weekly) The novel is candid with the gruesome possibilities of what it would take to survive an ordeal such as this. Ethics, morals, and rules are sometimes thrown out the window in order to avoid the inevitable.
The theme of this novel is family, faith, and resilience. Alex and his two sisters have to rely on each other to survive. Their faith also plays a huge part in their survival skills. “Religion is one of the strong threads running through the novel.” (Booklist) Not knowing where else to turn Alex runs to Father Franco who replies: “We must pray for Christ’s mercy,” he said. “I don’t know what else to tell you.” (p. 49) The kids are forced to grow up fast. Alex states of his sister Julie, “Her baby days were over. The world had no more room for twelve-year-old babies." (p. 98) As they begin to mature fast they continue to lean on each other and their faith. They each pray, attend mass, and seek God for strength. Alex states, “Forgive me for ever thinking I can do what I must alone, without Your guidance and Your love. (p. 185) As the novel continues the reader will come to understand the blessing we have at the moment. Young Adult readers will realize that life can change with a blink of an eye. No one is ever promised tomorrow. I believe Alex states it best when he says, “I was so spoiled, he thought. I had so much and I didn’t appreciate it. I always wanted more.” (p. 300) The author gives a very vivid picture of how drastic life could change. “I was gripped in a panic as I read this book that didn’t dissipate after I finished it. It hits very close to home…” (Library Media Connection)
I highly recommend this book with caution. If a young adult reader is not ready to hear plausible scientific situations that could occur then I would not recommend this novel. “…what Pfeffer writes about seems wrenchingly plausible.(Booklist) The powerful images and wrenching tragedies will haunt readers.(Publishers Weekly)
C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Booklist: The story’s power, as in the companion book, comes from readers’ ability to picture themselves in a similar situation.
School Library Journal: The characters evolve as the city decomposes, and the author succeeds in showing their heroism without making them caricatures of virtue. This fast-paced, thoughtful story is a good pick for melodrama fiends and reluctant readers alike.
Kirkus Review: …realistically bone-chilling despair and death join with the larger question of how the haves and have-nots of a major metropolitan city will ultimately survive in an increasingly lawless, largely deserted urban wasteland. Incredibly engaging.
D. CONNECTIONS
*Make a list of necessary items needed to survive a similar event for your family.
*Create a poem that describes the despair Alex and his sisters are facing.
*Discuss the plausibility of an event such as the moon being hit by an asteroid.
Follow Susan Beth Pfeffer with her Blog Website at: http://susanbethpfeffer.blogspot.com/2007/11/my-preliminary-notes-about-dead-gone.html
*1st Book in Series:
Life As We Knew It. 2008. ISBN: 9780152061548
SONG OF THE LIONESS BOOK 2:
“In The Hand Of The Goddess”
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pierce, Tamora. 1984. In The Hand Of The Goddess. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0689853246
B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
“In The Hand Of The Goddess”
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pierce, Tamora. 1984. In The Hand Of The Goddess. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0689853246
B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Tamora Pierce has written a mystical fantasy novel that is sure to please. The plot of the story revolves around the protagonist Alanna. Alanna is a young girl who dreamed as a child of becoming a warrior maiden. Disguised as a boy, Alanna serves Prince Jonathan as his personal squire. She has mastered the skills of dueling, has special magical powers, and the strength to boldly live and walk among other men within the Kings court. Alanna is forced to face her fears as the Goddess appears before her in the woods. She explains that she must conquer three fears. “You fear the Ordeal of the Knighthood.” (p.10) “You fear love.” (p. 11) “What’s my third fear?” “Roger, Duke of Conte.” (p.12) Alanna duels at a banquet, is taken prisoner of war, saved by the Prince, and conquers her fear by defeating the Duke of Conte.
The setting is filled with swords, adventure, intrigue, and mysticism. Alanna finds herself in a cold forest approached by the Goddess, at war, taken prisoner, and at the banquet of the King. The language used within the story helps to enhance the setting. I enjoyed hearing, “Mayhap I’m wrong. An’ then again, mayhap this’s why.” (p. 66) or “Treachery!” He snapped. “Merciful Mother, we should have guessed!” (p. 100)
The author has clear messages that she inputs within the story. First and foremost she portrays her female protagonist as strong and capable of anything a man can do. “ In the three years she had been disguised as a boy, she had learned that boys know girls as little as girls know boys. It didn’t make sense—people are people, after all..” (p. 3) It reinforces within young girls that people are people. If you desire to achieve greatness in life you must not allow your gender to make a difference. The author also explains that although it may be the “custom to yell insults and challenges at an opponent” that it is a “was a waste of breath.” (p. 30) I appreciated how she goes on to explain through Alanna that, “just because he behaves badly is not excuse for me to behave badly.” (p. 34) Alanna has opportunities to behave badly but in every circumstance she uses the laws of Chivalry first and foremost.
The setting is filled with swords, adventure, intrigue, and mysticism. Alanna finds herself in a cold forest approached by the Goddess, at war, taken prisoner, and at the banquet of the King. The language used within the story helps to enhance the setting. I enjoyed hearing, “Mayhap I’m wrong. An’ then again, mayhap this’s why.” (p. 66) or “Treachery!” He snapped. “Merciful Mother, we should have guessed!” (p. 100)
The author has clear messages that she inputs within the story. First and foremost she portrays her female protagonist as strong and capable of anything a man can do. “ In the three years she had been disguised as a boy, she had learned that boys know girls as little as girls know boys. It didn’t make sense—people are people, after all..” (p. 3) It reinforces within young girls that people are people. If you desire to achieve greatness in life you must not allow your gender to make a difference. The author also explains that although it may be the “custom to yell insults and challenges at an opponent” that it is a “was a waste of breath.” (p. 30) I appreciated how she goes on to explain through Alanna that, “just because he behaves badly is not excuse for me to behave badly.” (p. 34) Alanna has opportunities to behave badly but in every circumstance she uses the laws of Chivalry first and foremost.
The only problem I had with the story is that I kept wondering how in the world her companions did not guess she was a boy. Was her voice deep? Did she walk like a man? How did she learn to completely disguise herself so well? It was a tad unbelievable to me but then again, this is fantasy at its finest. Then when we learn that some are beginning to realize that she is a girl no one has a fit, wants her beheaded, or seems angry about being deceived. Disguising herself as a boy was a burden to Alanna. “The only thing she still looked forward to was the relief of telling everyone who she was.” (p. 174) Then in the story this phrase helped the story make sense to me. “You have learned the laws of Chivalry… Keep them in your heart. Use them as your guides when things are their darkest. They will not fail you if you interpret them with humanity and kindness. A knight is gentle. A knights’ first duty is to understand.” (p. 178) I assume that since the other men where knights there job was to “understand” why Alanna disguised herself and was the reason why they were so accepting of this revelation.
As stated by SLJ, this novel is a “timeless story of magic, adventure, and a strong female character.”
C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
School Library Journal: Alanna of Trebond continues her masquerade as Alan in this, the second book in the Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce. The story spans Alanna's fours years as Prince Jonathan's squire. During this time, Alanna participates in her first war, battles against Jonathan's evil uncle, Duke Roger, meets the Great Mother Goddess and experiences first love, all the while maintaining her guise as a boy.
D. CONNECTIONS
*Research the laws of chivalry, do they exist today? If so, in what form?
*Why was Alanna afraid of love?
*Write a poem that describes the strength and character of Alanna.
Visit Tamora Pierce at her website: http://www.tamora-pierce.com/books.html
Other books in the series:
Book 1: Alanna: The First Adventure. 2005. ISBN: 978-0689878558
Book 3: The Woman Who Rides Like A Man. 2005. ISBN: 978-0689878589
Book 4: Lioness Rampant. 2006. ISBN: 978-0689878572
