Book Overview
Warring kingdoms, bloody feuds, and a boy's battle for survival. Step back into the Dark Ages with this riveting epic adventure. In the wilds of Dark Age Britain, a bard abandons his son, Essa, in a village trapped between two feuding kingdoms. As the once-nomadic boy grows rooted in the life of the Wolf Folk, forging allegiances and young love, King Penda of Mercia threatens to attack, thrusting Essa into the violent and cunning world of the tribal rulers. Joined by unlikely friends, unsure of whom to trust -- or even of who he is -- Essa sets off on a dangerous journey, using his newfound intuitive gifts to guide them as a deadly battle brews. Will his desperate efforts to save his loved ones bring him closer to understanding why his father has never returned? Fast-paced and full of intrigue, this debut novel transports readers to a time of blood and steel, when peace was fleeting and won only at a cost.
Format:Hardcover
Language:English
ISBN:0763640832
ISBN13:9780763640835
Release Date:February 2009
Publisher:Candlewick Press (MA)
Length:297 Pages
Weight:1.05 lbs.
Dimensions:1.4" x 5.9" x 8.3"
Age Range:12 years and up
Grade Range:Grade 7 and higher
Customer Reviews
1 rating
Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 15 years ago
Essa's father brings him to a camp one day and leaves him there without any explanation. Essa's forced to grow up in the village without any sense of home. Years pass peacefully until the village's rival threatens war. Essa must do his duty and spy on the neighboring village. He's expected back in two days, but he's gone for much longer. He's caught while spying on the camp. The father he thought was dead is alive in the village. Essa's forced to swear another oath - to his enemies - and join their side. He doesn't understand why his father is there and his reasons for not returning. Essa figures he'll have plenty of time to ask these questions, but the next day he's sent on a mission with the King's son to fetch back his bride. The two boys form a friendship and gradually realize the pending war isn't best for both sides. They attempt to stop it with knowledge they've gained. But are they too late? Katy Morgan makes the Dark Ages come alive with her tale of war and courage, friendship and loyalty, and family and belonging. Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel
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