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Dear Mrs. Pierce,
I know what it feels like to come to a lesson thinking you're
really good at something because you did it a little at home,
and then find out you're not as good as you thought. Then you
have to start over again as the worst in the class. This happens
to Alanna when she starts weapon training.
This book makes the past come alive with a boom. You get a glimpse
of a totally different world. It takes the cover off the Middle
Ages, showing you how hard knights really worked, and what they
were really like. You get to know the characters well, and there
is never a time when you say "Huh? Who's that?" You
get transported back to Tortall in the Middle Ages, and you can't
put the book down.
I've always loved fantasy. Tales of magic, knights, dragons,
battles, and distant lands always capture my mind. I stay awake
at night dreaming about what will happen and what should have
happened. I also like books about friendship and people standing
up for themselves (like Alanna stands up to Ralon).
Alanna's temper, the way she looks at things, and her attitude
makes the book funny, original, and interesting (when Alanna asks
Ralon if he has been kissing pigs). It can also be a serious book
at times (for example, when Francis dies from the sweating sickness).
This book makes you laugh, think, and even cry. You get drawn
into the plot, and you want to re-read it many times.
I'd like to tell you that this book, and others that you have
written, have changed my life. They have brightened some of my
gloomiest days. They make you want to find out more about Alanna.
Every time I come home, I pick up one of your books and start
to read. They have taught me to work without complaining, and
most importantly, that if I try hard enough, I can do anything.
Sincerely,
Pauline Holdsworth
Grade 6
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