- book 2 of a trilogy, when the king has become increasingly suspicious of Aidan and sends him on a quest which means certain death
- themes include: loyalty, nature stewardship, courage against adversity, trusting the One God
- convo: fighting/battle injuries, potential distress for children sensitive to animals being hurt, brief “romance” mentions (wholesome)
- language: x2 stupid, x1 moron
- wonderful illustrations occasionally throughout
Type: chapter book
Ages: 7-12
Author: Jonathan Rogers
Illustrators: Joe Hox (interior), Stephen Crotts (cover), Abe Goolsby (map)
With a wonderful mix of adventure, mystery, and upbeat humor, this was a solid sequel. There is something in it for a wide range of reader/listener ages, so definitely consider it for a family read-aloud.
The feechie people group is such a delightful element to these stories. Their rudeswaps and head-butting are almost guaranteed to cause smiles and giggles. Beyond the funnies, though, they are fiercely loyal and an example of bravery and creativity. Don’t be surprised if your children suddenly emerge from their rooms imagining themselves feechiefolk!
“Hee-haw for Pantherbane! His fights is our fights and our fights is his’n!”
The book ends in a significant cliffhanger but not before delivering some brief but poignant words of advice from the old prophet to Aidan. Since it follows such a vivid story, readers will more clearly see God’s grace to both the believer and pagan (“Grace is the very air we breathe.”) and how we are each designed for specific work:
“A bird might think he deserves to swim as well as a fish, but if he sits moping on the riverbank instead of using the wings God gave him, the fox is going to eat him.”
Even adults can learn from that, can’t we! Overall, I’m very pleased with these books and wholeheartedly recommend book 1 (review here) and this one. When I finish the last one, I’ll come and add the link here.
Happy reading!