Samuel, a 14-year-old slave in 1776 Brooklyn, faces a difficult choice when the fighting between the British and the colonists reaches his doorstep, and only he can help the rebels.

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 4/13/2009

ISBN-10: 0807572187

ISBN-13: 9780807572184

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Four teens from different stations in life: Sandry, the noble, Briar, the thief, Daja, the sea merchant, and Tris, who nobody wants, are all chosen to study at Emelan, the community where Mages teach. Although none of the teens believes that he or she has magic powers, each comes to learn about their special talents. Sandry can weave spells into fibers that previously would not obey. Briar can hear plants talking to him. Daja has a true magic while working with metals. Tris can call up earthquakes, and tidal waves. They are all brought to reside in the discipline house, so that they can learn how to control their powers. It is only when a true disaster strikes, however, that they learn just how much good they can do.

Similar books: Animorphs by Katherine Applegate

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 3/27/2009

ISBN-10: 0590554085

ISBN-13: 9780590554084

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Author Tamora Pierce is known for her marvelous fantasy stories featuring tales of magic and heroism, usually featuring brave and mighty girls. In 'Sandry's Book' she delivers the first in a quartet of books about a group of remarkable children who each possess a unique magical ability. Each of them is an outcast in their own way, and under the strict guidance of the teachers at the Winding Earth Temple where they have come to live they learn to work their magic. A noble girl, Sandry's magic is in weaving. Street thief Briar can communicate with and influence plants and growing things. Daja, an orphaned Trader, has a magical connection to metal, and the moody, prickly Tris has a relationship with the weather that unsettles even her. When a looming disaster threatens the group, they must learn to overcome their differences and work together in order to save themselves.

Similar books: Alanna by Tamora Pierce; Magic Steps by Tamora Pierce

Reviewed by: lauraf

Date read: 9/27/2012

ISBN-10: 0613179358

ISBN-13: 9780613179355

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Left alone after the deaths of her father and brother in the War for Independence, and fleeing from the British who seek to arrest her, Sarah struggles to shape a new life for herself in the wilderness.

Reviewed by: sc

Date read: 4/13/2009

ISBN-10: 0590446517

ISBN-13: 9780590446518

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What would it be like to have a unicorn as your own special friend? Meet Sarah who lives in the forest with her Aunt Mag. Aunt Mag used to be a nice witch until a magic spell blew up in her face and turned her heart into stone. Now all Aunt Mag thinks about is being a powerful witch and making Sarah's life miserable. One night, while gathering toads and spiders in the woods for Aunt Mag, Sarah discovers a beautiful unicorn who fills her nights with adventure and joy. What will Aunt Mag do if she discovers her secret friend whose horn is magical? This book has an easy-to-read story with detailed black and white illustrations that will delight the reader.

Similar books: The Foolish Giant by Bruce and Katherine Coville

Reviewed by: mb

Date read: 7/27/2009

ISBN-10: 0397318731

ISBN-13: 9780397318735

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