Written by Tamora Pierce
Format: MP3

Grades 5-8--Alanna of Trebond continues her masquerade as Alan in this, the second book in the Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce (Random, 1990). The story spans Alanna's fours years as Prince Jonathan's squire. During this time, Alanna participates in her first war, battles against Jonathan's evil uncle, Duke Roger, meets the Great Mother Goddess and experiences first love, all the while maintaining her guise as a boy. Actress Trini Alvardo perfectly captures the essence of Alanna by giving her the uncertainty of a girl on the verge of womanhood combined with the steel determination and strength of a squire preparing for the battle to become a knight. Alvarado uses slight changes in her voice to vividly give life to a large cast of characters. While familiarity with the first book in the series, Alanna: The First Adventure (Random, 1983), will enhance this story, it is by no means necessary. Add this timeless story to collections where magic, adventure, and strong female characters are in demand.