Young Warriors: Stories of Strength

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What makes warrior?

This gutsy collection of fifteen original short stories offers a variety of answers to this question with thoughtfulness, heart, and the occasional wink. Compiled by bestselling author Tamora Pierce and folklorist/author Josepha Sherman, Young Warriors includes stories by some of today's most acclaimed and beloved fantasy and science-fiction authors for both adults and young adults.
Acts of Faith • (2005) • novelette by Lesley McBain
Afterword (Young Warriors: Stories of Strength) • (2005) • essay by Josepha Sherman
An Axe for Men • (2005) • short story by Rosemary Edghill
Devil Wind • (2005) • novelette by India Edghill
Eli and the Dybbuk • (2005) • novelette by Janis Ian
Emerging Legacy • [Wolverine's Daughter • 1.5] • (2005) • novelette by Doranna Durgin
Heartless • (2005) • short story by Holly Black
Hidden Warriors • (2005) • short story by Margaret Mahy
Introduction (Young Warriors: Stories of Strength) • (2005) • essay by Tamora Pierce
Lioness • (2005) • short story by Pamela F. Service
Serpent's Rock • (2005) • novelette by Laura Anne Gilman
Student of Ostriches • [Song of the Lioness] • (2005) • novelette by Tamora Pierce
Swords That Talk • (2005) • short story by Brent Hartinger
The Boy Who Cried "Dragon!" • (2005) • short story by Mike Resnick
The Gift of Rain Mountain • (2005) • short story by Bruce Holland Rogers
The Magestone • (2005) • short story by Janet Stirling and S. M. Stirling [as by Jan Stirling and S. M. Stirling]
Thunderbolt • (2005) • short story by Esther M. Friesner [as by Esther Friesner]

312 pages, Paperback

First published October 11,2005

About the author

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Hey, folks! I just discovered that apparently I have given some very popular books single-star ratings--except I haven't. How do I know I haven't? Because I haven't read those books at all. So before you go getting all hacked off at me for trashing your favorites, know that I've written GoodReads to find out what's going on.

I return to my regularly scheduled profile:
Though I would love to join groups, I'm going to turn them all down. I just don't have the time to take part, so please don't be offended if I don't join your group or accept an invitation. I'm not snooty--I'm just up to my eyeballs in work and appearances!

Also, don't be alarmed by the number of books I've read. When I get bored, I go through the different lists and rediscover books I've read in the past. It's a very evil way to use up time when I should be doing other things. Obviously, I've read a lot of books in 54 years!

I was born in South Connellsville, PA. My mother wanted to name me "Tamara" but the nurse who filled out my birth certificate misspelled it as "Tamora". When I was 8 my family moved to California, where we lived for 6 years on both sides of the San Francisco peninsula.

I started writing stories in 6th grade. My interest in fantasy and science fiction began when I was introduced to ‘The Lord of the Rings' by J. R. R. Tolkien and so I started to write the kind of books that I was reading. After my parents divorced, my mother took my sisters and me back to Pennsylvania in 1969. There I went to Albert Gallatin Senior High for 2 years and Uniontown Area Senior High School for my senior year.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, I wrote the book that became The Song of the Lioness fantasy quartet. I sold some articles and 2 short stories and wrote reviews for a martial arts movie magazine. At last the first book of the quartet, Alanna: The First Adventure was published by Atheneum Books in 1983.

Tim Liebe, who became my Spouse-Creature, and I lived in New York City with assorted cats and two parakeets from 1982 - 2006. In 2006 we moved to Syracuse, New York, where we live now with assorted cats, a number of squirrels, birds, raccoons, skunks, opossums, and woodchucks visiting our very small yard. As of 2011, I have 27 novels in print, one short story collection, one comic book arc ("White Tiger: A Hero's Compulsion") co-written with Tim, and a short story anthology co-editing credit. There's more to come, including a companion book to the Tortall `verse. So stay tuned!

Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 99 votes)
5 stars
33(33%)
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29(29%)
3 stars
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99 reviews All reviews
July 15,2025
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There were a diverse range of stories in this anthology, some of which were truly excellent while others were just okay.

A few of them really caught my attention and I liked them a great deal. They had a certain haunting quality that made me reflect on more profound issues. Additionally, some of the stories originated from cultures that were unfamiliar to me, which added an element of intrigue and新鲜感.

However, there was at least one story that was taken from a longer work. This is something I really disapprove of. When you try to cram a lot of material that原本 requires more time to develop into a shorter format, you simply don't get the same depth or clarity. It's similar to believing you understand a movie just by watching the preview. Clearly, that's not the case.

Overall, though, it's a good collection that offers a little something for everyone. It has the potential to appeal to a wide variety of readers with different interests and preferences.
July 15,2025
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It's extremely challenging to assign a favorable rating to an anthology.

There were indeed stories within this collection that were firmly in the 4+ star range. I am truly looking forward to delving into the works of these new-to-me authors in the future. (By the way, Tamora Pierce's contribution was also among my personal favorites, but it's no surprise that I have an affinity for her work.)

However, other stories simply failed to resonate with me at all. One particular story, titled "Hidden Warriors," I ultimately skipped. After several days, I couldn't even get past a couple of pages. There were several others in this anthology that I just wasn't a fan of.

Overall, though, it was still an enjoyable experience. I believe that part of the problem I had with it was the short story format in general. When I began reading most of them, I didn't like them because, due to the length restriction, you have to quickly immerse yourself. I despise reading and having the feeling that I've missed something. Nevertheless, several of those stories, once I got into the rhythm of them, I ended up being really disappointed that they had concluded so abruptly. I would recommend giving it a read if it piques your interest.
July 15,2025
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I was slightly disappointed by some of the short stories.

However, there were other ones that more than compensated for those disappointments.

Tamora Pierce is an author that I truly love.

Her writing has a unique charm and ability to draw readers in.

The worlds she creates are rich and vivid, filled with interesting characters and exciting adventures.

Even though not every short story in this collection was a home run for me, I still found myself thoroughly enjoying the overall experience.

Tamora Pierce's talent shines through in many of the stories, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.

Despite the initial disappointment, I am left with a sense of appreciation for her creativity and skill as a writer.

I would highly recommend this collection to any fan of Tamora Pierce or anyone looking for engaging and well-written short stories.

July 15,2025
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This is a very good introduction to some great writers.

Each story within this collection is a very fast read, making it accessible and engaging for readers of all levels.

I found myself particularly drawn to the stories of songwriter (!) Janis Ian, Laura Ann Gilman, and of course, Tamora Pierce.

Janis Ian's story offers a unique perspective, as her background as a songwriter adds an interesting layer to her writing.

Laura Ann Gilman's work is equally captivating, with her ability to create vivid characters and immersive worlds.

And Tamora Pierce, a well-known and beloved author, does not disappoint with her contribution.

Overall, this collection provides a wonderful opportunity to discover new writers and enjoy their diverse and talented works.
July 15,2025
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Young Warriors: Stories of Strength by Tamora Pierce

Tamora Pierce, renowned for her exceptional talent in writing Young Adult (YA) literature, has once again delighted readers with her latest offering. In "Young Warriors: Stories of Strength," she presents a captivating collection of role models that are sure to inspire and empower.


With her trademark flair, Pierce weaves together tales that showcase the courage, determination, and inner strength of her young characters. Each story is a unique exploration of the challenges and triumphs that these warriors face on their journey.


The book not only entertains but also provides valuable life lessons. It encourages readers to believe in themselves, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to find their own inner warrior.


Whether you're a long-time fan of Tamora Pierce or new to her work, "Young Warriors: Stories of Strength" is a must-read. So, grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to be inspired by these amazing tales of strength. Happy Reading!
July 15,2025
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I especially relished "Devil Wind" penned by India Edghill. The story was a captivating journey that held my attention from start to finish.

Equally enthralling was "The Boy Who Cried 'Dragon!'" by Mike Resnick. It had a unique charm and a plot that kept me on the edge of my seat.

"Serpent's Rock" by Laura Anne Gilman was another gem. The author's vivid descriptions brought the setting and characters to life.

"Emerging Legacy" by Doranna Durgin was also a great read. It had a rich and engaging storyline that made it difficult to put down.

And let's not forget "An Axe for Men" by Rosemary Edghill. This story had its own allure and added to the overall enjoyment of the collection.

While I did have a certain appreciation for Tamora Pierce's story, I must admit that I had already come across it in her Tortall and Other Lands collection. Nevertheless, it was still a well-written piece that contributed to the diversity of the anthology.
July 15,2025
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Warriors prove their strengths in odd tests.

These warriors, with their unwavering determination and remarkable skills, step into the realm of odd tests. It is in these unique challenges that they truly shine and demonstrate their mettle.

The odd tests may present various difficulties and unexpected scenarios that require the warriors to think on their feet and adapt quickly. They face physical and mental obstacles that push them to their limits.

But it is precisely through these trials that they prove their strengths. Their courage, perseverance, and ability to overcome adversity are on full display.

Whether it's a strange combat situation, a complex puzzle, or a seemingly impossible task, the warriors rise to the occasion and show what they are made of.

In the end, it is their performance in these odd tests that sets them apart and earns them the respect and admiration of others. S.S.
July 15,2025
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Of all the stories, is it not strange that I liked hers the best?

There were so many captivating tales to choose from, each with its own unique charm and allure. But for some reason, hers stood out to me in a way that none of the others could.

Maybe it was the way she told it, with such passion and enthusiasm that it was impossible not to be drawn in. Or perhaps it was the subject matter itself, something that spoke to my heart and soul on a deeper level.

Whatever the reason, I found myself completely engrossed in her story, hanging on every word and eager to see how it would unfold.

Even now, long after I first heard it, her story still lingers in my mind, a testament to its power and beauty.

It makes me wonder if there are other stories out there that will have the same effect on me, if there are other voices waiting to be heard and shared.

Only time will tell, but for now, I will continue to cherish the memory of hers and the impact it had on me.

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