Ragtag

August 1, 2009
Gr 3-6-As the people of Boston go about their business unaware, the Feathered Allianceconsisting of sparrows, swallows, pigeons, and other city birdsprepares for battle. The raptors, who previously occupied the adjacent woods, have been routed by clearing of the land. Now they seek to take over the city, and their superior size and might assure their victory. When Ragtag, a small and insignificant swallow, stumbles onto an eagle that is tangled in ropes and sets him free, the bird of prey promises to stand with the Feathered Alliance. But then he disappears, and Ragtag must find a way to prove to his friends that he was not lying about the eagle. In the vein of Erin Hunter's "Warriors" series (HarperCollins) and Kathryn Lasky's "Guardians of Ga'Hoole" (Scholastic), this novel opens up the world of these lively feathered creatures and their way of life. The story line moves quickly, making it a good choice for reluctant readers. The qualities of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice are themes explored as Ragtag and his friends battle for their lives and homes. An enjoyable read that could easily become a series."Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2009
Grades 4-8 When the fierce hawks, falcons, and ospreys of the Talon Empire invade Boston, the small city birds of the Feathered Alliance fight to defend their territory. How can the swallows and sparrows defeat the vicious birds of prey? After the Feathered Alliances leaders are either killed or taken prisoner, Ragtag, a young swallow, finds himself in charge of the combat, which takes place all over the city: above the river, across Quincy Market and Copley Square, under the moving trains, in the canyons created by the skyscrapers, and even through the Boston Public Library. The fast fantasy action in this first novel is really one battle many times over. But there is tension and surprise not only in the exciting warfare, but also in the story of betrayal and loyalty, failure and redemption. Young readers will bond with brave, heroic Ragtag and hope to meet him again in a future adventure.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)