From the Publisher
"Uehashi’s vivid storytelling, beautiful prose, and shifting perspectives that cover a broad scope of events will have readers relishing every detail of her lush world building." —The Bulletin, starred review, on The Beast Player
"The beauty and power of the natural world is at the core of this intriguing fantasy, whose abrupt ending guarantees a sequel." —Kirkus Reviews on The Beast Player
MARCH 2020 - AudioFile
Narrator Caitlin Kelly sensitively conveys the lush beauty of this award-winning fantasy novel, now available on audio for English-speaking listeners. Ten-year-old Elin’s world is torn apart when her mother, a caretaker of giant war serpents, is executed for harming the animals in her charge. Elin escapes the aftermath of her mother’s death and soon discovers her own talents for communing with animals. Kelly skillfully depicts Elin’s deepening confidence as her powers mature, balancing her joy at connecting with the animals and her worry over their callous treatment. Kelly’s unhurried pacing allows listeners to fully appreciate Uehashi’s exquisite prose and lose themselves in her vivid storytelling and world-building. Commendably, Kelly employs authentic pronunciations and a cadence that pays homage to the story’s Japanese roots. S.A.H. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine
Kirkus Reviews
2018-12-19
Can humans bridge the gulf that separates them from beasts? Is it love that binds all sentient life—or fear?
In this translation of the first entry in international-award-winning Japanese author Uehashi's (Moribito, 2014, etc.) hit series, 10-year-old Elin idolizes her mother, a skilled beast doctor for Toda, fearsome battle serpents. When some Toda die mysteriously, Elin's mother is sentenced to death. Elin escapes and finds a kind beekeeper in the mountains who raises her as his own. As she grows into adulthood, she discovers her love for all living creatures and a unique gift for communicating with the magical Royal Beasts. But the nation's political structure is fragile. Soon Elin is thrust into deadly civil conflict and must decide whether to use her beloved animal friends as tools of war. The author creates complex societies and fantastical creatures with imaginative, immersive detail. In a refreshing change for Western readers, the central issue hinges on neither individual power nor romantic love but kindness balanced against responsibility, and the narrative jumps among the perspectives of numerous characters in a more digressive style than they may be accustomed to. It's lovely to watch Elin blossom from a quiet, curious child into a compassionate, thoughtful young woman with a steadfast moral compass—even if that compass sometimes leads her astray.
A richly detailed coming-of-age fantasy epic that rewards the patient and contemplative reader. (Fantasy. 13-adult)
