Welcome to my first book review. As you may know, I read a lot. As a matter of fact, I just finished reading my 139th book of 2008. Have no fear, I will not burden you with a review of every book that I read. That is what shelfari is for. Only my most favorite, 5-star reads will earn a spot here.
Birdwing by Rafe Martin is based on the Grimm Brothers' fairy tale The Six Swans in which six brothers are turned into swans by their wicked step mother. Through a great sacrifice of their sister, they are all eventually turned back into humans. Unfortunately, there is a small mishap with the youngest brother, and his left wing never changes back into a human arm. This is his story.
I found Birdwing to be a thoroughly engrossing and well-paced fantasy. I enjoyed all the coming-of-age angst, magic, betrayal, and triumph. There is a just a hint of romance, a lot of adventure, unexpected twists in the plot, and several quiet, tender moments.
I wish the author would have delved a little deeper into the relationships, and it seemed like the resolution happened a bit too fast and easily, but overall this is a wonderful read. I loved it because of what it meant to me personally. The idea that something we think of as a weakness or curse can actually lead us down a path that will bless our lives. This book spoke to me at a time when I really needed to have that message. Highly recommend for grades 6 and up, who love fantasy or fairy tales.
I'm so glad to see this, because I literally just purchased it at the Scholastic Warehouse Sale!
ReplyDelete139... You're crazy. I was feeling really good about my eight or nine. You always have great recommendations, so I'll have to read this one.
ReplyDeleteIf it wasn't me, sibling #1 and #2 might have been doing it for you. They helped me get "it" cleared up, which also helps you, right? Ahh, burden off the shoulders. Well, that burden. :)
PS I told Jason how many books you've read and he said, "If I read three hours a day, I could probably read ten books a year."
I'm so glad you're well-read and can recommend books for me so I don't waste my time on bad ones.
ReplyDeleteI finished the Book Thief (cried the whole ending) and I'm starting Peony in Love next.
I've read several books off of your shelfari because you always have good recommendations and reviews! So thank you thank you. And can I just say holy cow?! I made it to 106 in a year, and you at 139 and it's not even done yet? You go girl!! I'd like to try again in a few years. Maybe I'll have new goal ;0)
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