Keyes, Morgan Darkbeast 288 pgs. Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2012. $13.10. (Rating: G)
Keara has always lived with her raven, Caw. He is her “Darkbeast”, which is an animal or a reptile that every newborn is bound to –as they grow up they feed all their dark emotions to this creature, freeing themselves of it. This creates a bond, which must then be severed on the day a child becomes an adult, by killing the creature. Keara can’t and won’t –she is naturally rebellious. Instead she runs away to join a traveling troupe of performers. She must hide from the Inquisitors, learn a new craft, make friends, and live with her deceit.
This was a real page turner, I read it straight through. It reminded me a lot of The Golden Compass, but with a slightly different spin. It was an interesting and well-crafted story. I think students will enjoy this book, especially if they like animals. The author set up nicely for a sequel too.
ELEMENTARY -ADVISABLE Reviewer: Stephanie School Librarian & Author.
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