Warrior Genius

November 15, 2017
Twelve-year-old Giacomo, his friends, and their Geniuses--magical familiars--survived a huge battle and are now on their way to find the second of three Sacred Tools after series opener Rebel Genius (2016).In the second installment of the Rebel Geniuses series, DiMartino keeps a swift pace as readers follow the group from the Renaissance Italy-inspired Zizzola to the India-inspired Rachana. The group must stay ahead of the tyrannical Nerezza, her terrifying Genius, and her armies and also convince Rachana--longtime enemies of Zizzola, now under truce--to let them in and back out again with a second Sacred Tool. The four boys, two girls, and their elderly teacher each have strengths that contribute to the group, aided by their charming bird Geniuses. While Giacomo is the main protagonist, there is enough perspective shifting for readers to get to know each character via thought, deed, and motivation. The Rachanans are described as dark, dangerous people but only through the lens of Zizzolans. Readers see more: men and women warriors both skilled and compassionate, a deep spiritual system, and rich culture--including flying horse Geniuses! Zanobius, a Tulpa, or man-made humanoid, has some great scenes in the story as he grapples with his violent past and benevolent present. There are moments of dark horror that give weight to action scenes, tempered by relief when they're past.Easy reading with a detailed magical system involving the arts and sacred geometry--an excellent spark to learning more about both in the real world. (Fantasy. 10-14)

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January 1, 2018

Gr 4-7-Giacomo is newly acquainted with his creative powers and is on a mission to find the second of three Sacred Tools. By his side are a group of fellow young artists and their Geniuses-avian creatures which embody the creative spirit. Their powerful artistic abilities pose a threat to Nerrezza, the tyrannical ruler of Virenzia who seeks to destroy all Geniuses and harness the power of the Sacred Tools herself. DiMartino has created a fascinating and innovative world in which the creative spirit and its diverse manifestations equates to literal strength; a greatly empowering message for readers. The author's straightforward writing style makes this complex world accessible. Familiarity with the first book is necessary to catch all of the concepts, characters, and events referenced. Featured throughout, Giacomo's sketches depict his observations and the development of his talent while illustrating key geometric concepts in the narrative. The portrayal of the relationship between art and math, without a hint of didacticism, is one adults and children alike will appreciate. VERDICT An action-packed denouement and a shocking cliffhanger make this sequel a must-have for collections.-Jessica Agudelo, New York Public Library

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2017
Grades 5-8 Having secured the Compassone of three powerful objects known as the Sacred Tools of GeometryGiacomo and his friends set out to find the Straightedge, which amplifies an artistic genius' power a hundred times over. They must find and capture it to stop Nerezza, the Supreme Creator, from spreading her tyranny. On the run from a merciless emperor, the kids and their teacher find themselves in the enemy territory Rachana. Once admitted to the kingdom, they learn Rachanan's geniuses are dying because of an ancient, evil forcethe same force that holds the Straightedge. Giacomo is chosen to retrieve the tool, but the question lingers in everyone's minds whether Giacomo, his companions, and the Rachanans will survive the task and the coming invasion by Nerezza. This installment of the Geniuses series suffers from the sophomore slump, with pacing that wanes during lessons and explanations. However, its outcome hints that the third installment will pick up the thrill factor of the first (Rebel Genius, 2016). Readers who enjoy detailed battles will demand this book.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)