June 1, 2007
Gr 7-10-Luaine is the daughter of the renowned warrior Cuchulainn, and honor and war have always been a part of her life. She interacts with kings, queens, and great druids thanks to her father's stature, and receives a thorough education. As a young girl she must flee her home with her mother while her father goes off to fight Queen Maeve's vast army. She loses her parents before she's fully become a woman and is married off to old King Conchobor. It's a loveless marriage, and she is forced into hiding after a spurned poet curses her. Like the Irish myths on which the story is loosely based, Bennett's tale is full of adventure and tragedy, but her heroine's indomitable spirit keeps her going. This is an interesting read, although the many Gaelic names and some awkward phrasing would probably put off reluctant readers. However, those who take the time to travel along with Luaine will find it richly rewarding. The author provides a list of pronunciations for the Gaelic names and a note on how her novel differs from the legends that inspired it."Nancy Kunz, Tuckahoe Public Library, NY"
Copyright 2007 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.