April 1, 2021
Two tweens embark on a journey to fulfill a prophecy and save their kingdom. Years ago, Lyrica was filled with life, warmth, and hope, protected as it was by the Song and Feather of the Firebird. Until the night when the Spectress and the Demon of Fear filled the sky with darkness, killing the queen and everyone else in the castle--and leaving behind a cold land, devoid of hope. In the present, Prewitt is turning 12, the Age of Hope, and Granny Arila is finally telling him the truth about Lyrica's dark past, satisfying his curiosity about things no one speaks of openly. Prewitt discovers not only that the Lost Princess survived that terrible night, but that their destinies are tied together through a mysterious prophecy. Prewitt leaves home, searching for the princess, and runs into Calliope, a girl who has been hidden from the world for 12 years. When he realizes she is the Lost Princess, something she had not known herself until recently, they embark on a dangerous quest to find the Firebird's Feather and Song and save Lyrica. Their journey is a fast-paced adventure full of monsters and magic. Told in the third person, the book focuses on Calliope and Prewitt, but secondary characters' stories are neatly woven in. Finding hope, true friendship, and bravery lies at the heart of their journey. Prewitt has brown hair and skin; black-haired Calliope has honeyed skin. A fantastical adventure full of hope. (Fantasy. 8-12)
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April 15, 2021
Grades 4-7 *Starred Review* Prewitt has always known Lyrica to be a gray place full of rain and sadness, where the Spectress rules mercilessly behind the strength of her ash golems. When his granny Arila falls ill one night, she reveals to Prewitt that his destiny is tied to that of the lost princess of Lyrica, the one person who can bring back the Firebird--the only creature that can defeat the Demon and the Spectress who wields his power. Now, 12 years after the events that gave rise to that evil, Prewitt meets Calliope, who learns that she is the lost princess, and the two set off on a journey to find a lost Firebird feather, meeting ancient spirits, traveling to realms unknown to humankind, and discovering hope along the way. Readers will find themselves immersed in Prewitt and Calliope's magical world full of secrets, ancient beings, and mysterious histories. The complex feelings the characters share--from fear to guilt to hope--and the difficult and seemingly hopeless conditions they face will cause readers to reflect on their own perceptions of the world and see what is truly important. A fast-paced, heart-squeezing adventure, perfect for fans of intricate fantasy worlds and memorable characters.
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July 1, 2021
Gr 3-8-A Princess, a Demon, a Firebird, a Prophecy. In the dystopian Kingdom of Lyrica where no one dares to read, sing, or even hope, two children might just be the ones to restore their home. Young Prewitt has just turned 12-the Age of Hope-when he discovers Calliope, a long-hidden princess. The two undertake a quest to defeat the evil Spectress ruling Lyrica and call back the Firebird who once protected the kingdom. While this debut grapples with themes of hope and empowerment for young people, its well-worn tropes make it predictable and offer little to make it stand out among middle grade fantasies. In addition, it contains such extended world-building and elevated vocabulary that the intended audience may find the plot difficult to follow. The two protagonists are admirable in their courage and grit, yet the narrative is uneven in the emphasis placed on each character throughout the story. Calliope does most of the heavy lifting during the quest as Prewitt's role shifts from central to supporting and never recovers in a satisfying way. Dedicated young fantasy readers will enjoy this book, but it's unlikely to become a standout favorite. VERDICT A suitable addition where there's a demand; for large youth fantasy collections.-Kelly Jahng, South Park Elem. Sch., IL
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