Aquirre,
Ann. Horde (series Razorland
Trilogy: Book 3). Macmillan/Feiwel
& Friends 2013 422p $17.99 ISBN 978-1-250-02463-3 ms/hs Science fiction VG-BN
In this continuation of the Razorland Trilogy, Horde brings Deuce and
Fade together in a fight that will decide the future of the world. In their travels to a town unscathed by the
hordes of Freaks roaming earth to take control, Deuce and Fade make new
contacts, form an army and use guerilla tactics to take down as many of their
enemy as possible. They realize their
limitations against a horde so heavily populated with members, and a large part
of their fight involves problem-solving.
Along the way, author Ann Aguirre teams them up with warriors
of equal abilities and answers readers’ questions about the origin of the Muties, and she teaches a message of cooperation
in a surprise ending that will leave fans of the series satisfied. Battles are realistically horrific, a trait that will please
readers who like action. Deuce’s rise to
leadership portrays her as unassuming yet capable, characteristics designed to
teach young adult readers the concept of empowerment. Empowerment is not the theme, however. The theme is not revealed until the end of
the book, and this is another facet of Aguirre’s writing that is as perfect as her
dialogue and descriptive text. The
relationships between warriors, between family members and between warring
factions are sublime. What a great
ending to a futuristic book that is both unique in plot and wise in theme.
Summary: Fade works through the
PTSD caused by his imprisonment in Book 2, and his inability to
reach out to Deuce is resolved, as is the conflict between the Freaks, who are growing ever more intelligent, and the townspeople, who try to preserve
their way of life under the threat of annihilation.
Dystopian novels,
Adventure-Fiction --Martha Squaresky
No comments:
Post a Comment