Description:

Collun has always been happiest working in his garden. But his peaceful life is shattered when his sister, Nessa, mysteriously disappears. He sets off to find her and soon realizes that he and his traveling companions, including the feisty young archer Breo-Saight, have become involved in something much larger and more sinister than he had imagined. ** ### From Publishers Weekly Collun, a timid gardener and herbalist, is forced to leave his safe soil and predictable plants for an epic journey to save his kidnapped sister, Nessa. What begins as a simple quest soon involves the future of an entire kingdom. The reluctant hero is accompanied by three other characters, including a trusted friend, Talisen, who dreams of becoming a true bard--"one who must have the skill for making songs as well as playing them." In her first novel, Pattou successfully knits together the diverse strands of Collun's personal cause and the history of Eirren, her mythic country. The multiplicity of characters and locales, intricate plot details and difficult language may put off younger readers; and, although the basic story is psychologically appropriate for the intended audience, it may lack the emotional depth needed to satisfy older readers. However, the problems are perhaps due to the fact that this novel is the first in a series--one in which Pattou will doubtless extend and explore further her broad canvas. Though the ending here is satisfying, it is loose enough to pique readers' curiosity for the ongoing story. Ages 8-12. Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. ### From School Library Journal Grade 6-8-- There is high adventure in this fantasy set in a mythical kingdom that resembles the British Isles of long ago. Reluctant hero Collun leaves home to find his missing sister; soon after, he is beset by evil birds and other creatures. The wizard Crann explains the full nature of Collun's quest: his country, Eirren, is in great danger of being conquered by neighboring Scathia and its queen Medb, who craves to rule all. She has sent henchmen and magic beasts to take from Collum a powerful stone that he has long possessed (although he is unaware of its secrets). This story hardens Collun's resolve and he continues on his path, joined by a girl disguised as a boy, who is a sharpshooter with a puzzling past; and a would-be bard with a sense of humor. Aided by a little wizardry and other supernatural feats, they overcome life-threatening dangers, and Collun kills the queen's most dangerous monster. He also finds his sister and keeps his stone. For the time being, the queen's power has been destroyed, but she will no doubt surface in the promised sequels. Although the plot moves somewhat slowly, Collun's adventures draw readers along from one crisis to another, while he steadily grows in knowledge and courage. Fantasy fans will find the tale intriguing and look forward to further adventures in this kingdom. It's unfortunate that there is no map of the long journey. --Virginia Golodetz, St. Michael's College, Winooski, VT Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.