What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that, aside from a few fights, there's
not much to be concerned with here, even though it is aimed at
older kids. There is a human sacrifice and some brutal
fighting. Among other themes, the book espouses a proactive
view of commitment to friendship, even with those with whom one
has little in common, that is as refreshing as it is
unusual.
Families who read this book together could discuss the central theme of faith. How are the inhabitants of Radiance so completely convinced of their faith? How do the priests and king use this faith? Why do the people react the way they do when it is shattered? How is it different from the faith of the Nomana?
Families may also want to talk about the book series. What is fun about them? Why would publishers be interested in printing them? If you were an author, what would be the appeal of writing a series -- and what would be the challenges?
Common Sense Media Review
An intriguing premise and terrific characterizations mark
the beginning of a new series by author and Academy
Award-nominated screenwriter (
Gladiator
and
Shadowlands), William Nicholson. While there's not a
lot of action in this first volume, the intricate and detailed
process of setting up this odd little world, encompassing
mythologies drawn from several different cultures, and the rich
characters within it is fascinating to read.
The most interesting characters are the secondary ones, especially Wildman. Hilariously childish, casually murderous, he gleefully calls out to his men and his victims alike, "Do you lo-o-ove me?" But it's more than love he seeks, though he himself doesn't know what it is.
This is one of those books that sneaks up on you a bit, having more of an impact a day or two after you finish it. The summary below only contains the main plot, but there are several subplots, each with its own appealingly fleshed-out characters, that wind their way through the book like vines and shoots that come twining together at the satisfying climax. The author has hinted that there are big surprises to come in the next two volumes of the planned trilogy, including the nature of the god at the center of the story.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
