The Prophecy by Hilari Bell

From School Library Journal Grade 5-8–Prince Perryndon wants nothing more than a chance to be a scholar, while his father wishes only for a warrior son. When Perryn stumbles across a prophecy that might help him to destroy the black dragon devastating the kingdom, he runs away from the castle hoping to find the elements described in the forbidden book of magic–a true bard, a unicorn, and a unique sword. With the king's men searching for him (and someone trying to kill him), Perryn discovers that nothing is as he imagined. The bard is in prison, the unicorn is terrified of every danger, and the sword is rusty. The prince must use his wits to discover his true worth in order to save the kingdom and himself. Bell has crafted a coming-of-age story that engages adolescents who are themselves trying to determine the path to selfhood. Prophecy has all the essentials of a good fantasy adventure and moves quickly enough to connect with reluctant readers._–Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WI_

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From Gr. 6-9. "You'll be the forty-fifth warrior-king and not some worthless scholar," the king of Idris tells his 14-year-old son, but Prince Perryn much prefers academic pursuits to his warrior training, and he longs to postpone knighthood for a stint at the university. Then he uncovers an ancient scroll that details how to slay the dragon that is terrorizing the kingdom, and he learns that the king's most trusted advisor is a traitor intent on destroying the kingdom. So begins a classic hero's quest, and, with the murderous traitor in pursuit, Perryn sets out to kill the dragon and restore peace. Bell expertly maintains the delicious suspense to the last page, and she layers the breathtaking action with a cast of fully realized magical creatures and universal coming-of-age questions: How do you reconcile a parent's desires with your own? Is book learning or messy experience a better life guide? Perryn's authentic, urgent feelings--the hurt, misunderstanding, and increasing openheartedness--will draw readers as much as the wholly satisfying, escapist adventure. Gillian Engberg

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