Rise of a Hero

July 1, 2005
Gr 6-10 -War has changed everything in Farsala. The ruling Deghans, with few exceptions, are dead and the conquering Hrum are in charge. The three young people around whom the first novel revolved must now decide how they can take back Farsala. Perhaps the most interesting turn of events for this book is the decision to change the name of the trilogy and rename the first novel. Originally, the trilogy was to have been called -The Book of Sorahb - and the first installment was "Flame" (now titled "Fall of a Kingdom"). This makes it all a bit confusing for readers who looked forward to the continuing saga. This second book begins immediately after the first, but there is no attempt to recap information central to the story, making the motivations of the three main characters -Soraya, Jiaan, and Kavi -difficult to discern. The first book was closely interwoven with a retelling of the epic Persian poem about Rostam and Sorahb and, while the name of Sorahb is heavily invoked in this novel, it's impossible to know who he is without having read "Flame". Important details about the Hrum are also found only in the first novel and this makes them little more than cardboard conquerors here. Standing alone, "Hero" is not as successful or satisfying as the first book, but those who have been waiting to find out the fate of the Farsalans will want to read it." -Sharon Grover, Arlington County Department of Libraries, VA"

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