From the back cover: Born under a prophecy that will liberate and unite Japan, Sarasa has had to take her brother Tatara's place as the "Boy of Destiny." Fighting for the oppressed, Sarasa journeys across Japan to gain allies and defeat her enemies—all while keeping her identity a secret! While in Kyoto, Shuri runs into his beloved sister, the Great Sister of White, as well … [Read more...] about Basara 18 by Yumi Tamura: A-
Fantasy
The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner: A-
From the front flap, edited for spoilers: When Eugenides outwitted the Queen of Attolia, she lost face. To restore her reputation and reassert her power, the Queen of Attolia will go to any length and accept any help that is offered... she will risk her country to execute the perfect revenge. Eugenides can steal anything. And he taunts the Queen of Attolia, moving through … [Read more...] about The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner: A-
The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner: B+
From the inside flap: The king's scholar, the magus, believes he knows the site of an ancient treasure. To attain it for his king, he needs a skillful thief, and he selects Gen from the king's prison. The magus is interested only in the thief's abilities. What Gen is interested in is anyone's guess. Their journey toward the treasure is both dangerous and difficult, … [Read more...] about The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner: B+
The Pearl of the Soul of the World by Meredith Ann Pierce: A
From the back cover: All the world's wisdom and magic reside within the iridescent depths of a small white pearl. "All my sorcery," the Ancient Ravenna had said to Aeriel. "It is left to you to save the world." But is the pearl powerful enough to enable Aeriel to defeat the White Witch? Aeriel's people have assembled an army and are soon to attack the Witch and her … [Read more...] about The Pearl of the Soul of the World by Meredith Ann Pierce: A
Princess Tutu 2 by Mizuo Shinonome et al.: B+
Book description: Ahiru's transformation into Princess Tutu has fulfilled her life-long fantasy, but her charmed new life is not a ballerina's fairytale. Jealousy rules her new magical kingdom, and an envious Princess Kraehe will continue to thwart Ahiru's efforts to win her broken-hearted prince. Princess Tutu will have to toss her tiara aside and become a soldier to fight for … [Read more...] about Princess Tutu 2 by Mizuo Shinonome et al.: B+