FICTION

Starfire

ALVAREZ, Jennifer. 272p. (The Guardian Herd). /Harper. Oct. 2014. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9780062286062; ebk. ISBN 9780062286086.
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Gr 5–7—Every hundred years in the land of Anok, a black foal is born into one of the five pegasi herds with the power to destroy or unite them all. Star is that foal. Although his wings are useless, making him no greater than a land horse, Star will be executed before his first birthday by Thunderwing, the head of Sun Herd. The last time a black foal fulfilled the prophecy, it resulted in the death and destruction of all the herds. A few supporters believe Star may bring peace to the warring tribes, and one takes the risk of hiding him before his birthday. The disappearance of the black foal launches an epic battle that could result in the decimation of the herd. The typical fantasy tale of an ordinary being destined to become something extraordinary is infused with verve and ingenuity. The pacing is quick, chock-full of adventure and twists, making it difficult to put down. Readers will be clamoring for the next book in this adventure. Recommended for fantasy fans.—Beth Cuddy, Seward Elementary School, Auburn, NY
Born the dark foal of Anok, Star is different from other pegasi--he can't fly, and on his first birthday the light of the Hundred Year Star will empower him to heal or destroy. Thunderwing, the herd's over-stallion, has vowed to kill him first. Scenes of adolescent pegasus bullying are overwrought, but the magical frame makes strong scaffolding for the well-executed plot.

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