Books Like...

"Alanna: The First Adventure" follows the story of Alanna, a young girl who disguises herself as a boy to become a knight in a world where women are not allowed to pursue such a path. The book takes the reader through Alanna's struggles, challenges, and triumphs as she navigates the training and expectations of knighthood while keeping her true identity hidden. The plot unfolds with a mix of adventure, self-discovery, and determination, drawing readers into a world of medieval fantasy filled with strong female characters and themes of identity and perseverance.

The writing style of "Alanna: The First Adventure" is described as engaging, captivating, and suitable for a younger audience. The book is praised for its fast-paced narrative, well-fleshed-out characters, and vivid world-building that immerses readers into the realm of Tortall. The story balances elements of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes, offering a tale of empowerment and courage as Alanna strives to break gender norms and follow her dreams.

In "Wild Magic," readers are introduced to Daine, a 13-year-old girl who discovers her talent for wild magic that allows her to communicate and control all animals. The story follows Daine as she navigates a journey of self-discovery, facing dangerous adventures and uncovering her place in the world. Tamora Pierce's writing style is described as engaging, with vivid descriptions of characters and a strong world-building element that immerses readers in the fantasy realm of Tortall.

'Sandry's Book' in the 'Circle of Magic' series by Tamora Pierce follows the story of four young children who meet at a school for mages, each possessing a special magic ability. As they learn to appreciate each other's differences, they also discover the power of friendship and trust. The plot revolves around their training as mages and the challenges they face together, culminating in a catastrophe that tests their magical abilities and bond. The writing style is described as charming, entertaining, and unique, with a multi-person perspective adding depth to the young adult fantasy genre.

In 'Sandry's Book', readers are introduced to a world where magic is a normal part of everyday life, with four young people - Briar, Tris, Sandry, and Daja - learning to control their magical talents while navigating their education and growing up. is praised for its interesting characters, world-building outside the standard medieval fantasy setting, and the careful creation of a magic system that underpins the story. Despite some minor criticisms about pacing and character development, readers appreciate the soft and soothing nature of the narrative, making it a perfect read for younger audiences and those seeking a comforting escape.

"Terrier" by Tamora Pierce is a high medieval fantasy novel that follows the story of Beka Cooper, a trainee for the Provost's Guard in a rough and crime-ridden neighborhood. The book is written in a journal format, offering a first-person perspective on Beka's journey as she uses her magical talents, special skills, and determination to solve murder mysteries and crimes while navigating through her training and growth into adulthood. Set in the world of Tortall, the story provides a unique view from the bottom, focusing on the lives of thieves and police, and introduces a strong female protagonist with a strong sense of justice and a tenacious attitude.

Beka, also known as Terrier for her relentless pursuit of solving cases, faces challenges such as kidnappings, murders, and uncovering crimes in the poverty-stricken streets of the lower city. With the help of her friends and her ability to communicate with the dead, Beka tackles various cases that test her skills and determination, all while portraying a gritty and imaginative world filled with magic, adventure, and mystery.

Trickster's Choice follows the journey of Alianne, daughter of the legendary Alanna the Lioness, as she navigates the world of espionage and politics in the Copper Isles. Kidnapped and sold into slavery, Aly finds herself entangled in a web of political intrigue orchestrated by the Trickster god, Kyprioth. As she uses her spy skills to protect the family she serves and ensure the safety of the children of prophecy, Aly grapples with themes of imperialism, race relations, and necessary war in a world created by author Tamora Pierce. The book is praised for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and the exploration of complex societal issues within a high fantasy setting.

Magic Steps follows Sandry, a young mage with a unique ability to weave spells like threads, as she discovers a boy named Pasco who unknowingly possesses the magical talent of dance. As Sandry takes on the role of teaching Pasco, they find themselves entangled in a series of mysterious murders in their city. The book delves into themes of coming of age, teaching, and the complexities of magic, all set in a detailed and engaging world crafted by author Tamora Pierce. The writing style is described as perfect for young adults, with a detailed and multi-layered plot that captivates readers into falling in love with the magical world Pierce has created.

"Dealing with Dragons" by Patricia C. Wrede follows the story of Princess Cimorene, who defies traditional princess roles and runs away to live with dragons. The book showcases Cimorene's unconventional approach to princess life, her involvement in dragon society, and her adventures with other princesses, witches, and wizards. The plot involves Cimorene foiling the plans of conniving wizards and saving the dragons from a wicked plot, all while maintaining a practical and independent attitude. The writing style is humorous, full of fairy tale references, and offers a fresh perspective on traditional princess narratives.

Cimorene's character is highlighted as strong, independent, and empowering, breaking away from gender norms and fairy tale conventions. The book features elements of magic, adventure, humor, and female empowerment, making it an engaging and fun read for readers of all ages. The story not only entertains but also delivers messages of individuality, courage, and the ability to accomplish great things by being different.

'Tempests and Slaughter' by Tamora Pierce is a young adult fantasy novel that delves into the life of Arram Draper, a young mage student at the Imperial University of Carthak. The book follows Arram's journey as he navigates the complexities of mage academy culture, makes friends and enemies, and learns new magical concepts such as talking to gods and infusing medicinal herbs with new strength. Set in the world of Tortall, the story provides insights into the early lives of familiar characters like Numair, Ozorne, and Varice, while exploring themes of friendship, authority, and the limits of power. The writing style is described as rich, immersive, and filled with intricate world-building that shines through the detailed portrayal of characters and settings.

'Tortall and Other Lands: A Collection of Tales' by Tamora Pierce is a compilation of short stories set in the Tortall universe, offering additional background and exploring different characters and cultures within the realm. The book provides a mix of stories, some focusing on well-known characters like Aly and Nawat, while others introduce new characters and perspectives. Readers may find it challenging to follow the shifting narrators in each chapter without clear context, but overall, the book delves into various themes such as tolerance, cultural diversity, and personal growth.

The collection is praised for its ability to immerse readers in the rich world of Tortall, offering a deeper understanding of the realm and its inhabitants. While some stories may not appeal to every reader, the book is commended for its compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and exploration of diverse worldviews. Fans of Tamora Pierce's work will appreciate the opportunity to revisit familiar settings and characters, while new readers can still enjoy the book's engaging storytelling and unique perspectives.

"The Hero and the Crown" by Robin McKinley follows the story of Aerin, a princess with a mixed heritage who defies societal expectations and embarks on a journey to prove herself by fighting dragons. The book explores themes of self-discovery, courage, and determination as Aerin navigates through challenges, overcomes prejudices, and finds her true purpose in a beautifully crafted fantasy world. The writing style is described as vivid, emotional, and engaging, with a focus on character development, intricate plot weaving, and a touch of romance that adds depth to the narrative.