Reread 2022:

Forever magical, forever my fave Tortall series. Tamora Pierce, queen of my heart. This series has truly stood the test of time for me. The world of Tortall is so richly detailed and full of wonder. The characters are vivid and come to life on the pages. I find myself completely immersed in their adventures with each reread. Tamora Pierce's writing is masterful, effortlessly drawing me into the story and making me care deeply about what happens to the characters. Whether it's the brave and determined Alanna, the charming and mysterious George, or any of the other wonderful characters, they all hold a special place in my heart. The Tortall series is not just a set of books, but a magical escape that I can always turn to when I need a little bit of magic in my life.

This was my very first Tamora Pierce book!

Surprisingly, I didn't choose it myself. Instead, it arrived in a bookish subscription box.

I have a strong feeling that if I had discovered this book between the ages of 11 and 14, I would have absolutely adored it. It is clearly targeted at the middle grade audience. While it does possess some truly fantastic elements and delightful characters, the writing style was just a bit too simplistic and geared towards that younger age group for me to fully engage with it.

After reading this one, I don't think I'll be continuing with this particular series. However, I'm still extremely eager to explore some of Pierce's other works. If any of you have any great recommendations, please do let me know! I'm looking forward to finding a Pierce book that will truly capture my heart.

Soooo this was the first book I ever read by Tamora Pierce.

It was truly great. In fact, it was incredibly great.

I read it over and over and over again.

I vividly remember reading the new books in the series as they were released, and they were sooooo good.

Then I delved into Alanna, and I recall being enraged when Sandry's book came out and it was set in a different universe.

However, I soon fell in love with those ones just as much as I loved these ones.

Tamora Pierce is truly awesome!!!

Just sayin'~~~~~

Her writing has the power to transport readers to different worlds and make them fall in love with the characters and stories.

Each book is a unique adventure that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

I highly recommend her works to anyone who loves fantasy and great storytelling.

You won't be disappointed!

I've never quite fathomed why Tamora Pierce's work is predominantly marketed as 'Children's Books'. Her vast army of fans blatantly showcases that her creations far exceed such simplistic limitations. If you've never come across her before, I'm green with envy - there's a whole treasure trove out there waiting to be relished. However, I'm not all that astonished as these books seem to go in and out of print in the UK without any discernible pattern. In the attempt to categorize them, they've often ended up lost among the shelves of libraries and bookshops.

I first discovered the enchanting land of Tortall when the 'Lioness' series was initially being released, many years ago. They were slender books, serialized under the premise that 'children don't read long books'. Tamora Pierce has since expressed her gratitude to JK Rowling for disproving this claim completely and for demonstrating that books need not be exclusive to a particular age group.

This is the first installment of her second series, centering around a girl who possesses 'wild magic'. She can communicate with animals, birds, whales, and even dragons. It appears that there's no species barrier she can't overcome. Through her eyes, we embark on a remarkable fantasy adventure that still manages to circle back to fundamental human relationships. Shuttling between the 'wilderness' of the non-human world and the vastly different social norms of her 'own' world, Daine delves into morality, reasoning, and a simple comprehension of the relationships between ourselves and those with whom we share our lands.

Alright, this is mainly a book about a young girl, so some of the descriptions might be regarded as a touch basic. But whenever Daine doesn't understand something, she poses questions and receives answers. Moreover, the author doesn't shy away from the grittier aspects of life: people (and animals) perish, go insane, get injured, and make poor decisions. Although it's a fantasy universe, the characters still have human requirements (I recall one of her books being the first time I ever witnessed a fictional character experiencing menstruation).

But what truly lures me back to Tamora Pierce, aside from the outstanding character development, is the magic. Her worlds incorporate magic as an element of life as real and palpable as breathing (yes, palpable. Try not breathing and see what happens). There are no magic words, wand-waving, or theatrics - just uncomplicated personal skill, exploration, understanding, and connection. Her characters train, learn, and evolve - and thus we see ourselves, whether child or adult, acquiring new insights simply by questioning what has been presented to us as 'normal' or 'fact'. Life isn't that uncomplicated, and in this fantasy setting, we're permitted to traverse those mysterious paths and see where they might lead.

Absolutely magical.

3.5 stars

This new series introduces us to Daine, a young girl with a tragic past. She is all alone in the world except for her trusty pony. One day, she crosses paths with Onua, an ostler for the palace, and they form a friendship. Onua soon discovers that Daine has a special gift with animals. From there, a series of adventures unfold.

I really liked Daine. She has a lot to contend with, both in terms of her past and in coming to terms with her abilities and learning how to use them, as well as the responsibilities that accompany them. It was great to see Alanna, George, Jonathan, and the old gang again, but I appreciate that they didn't overshadow the story. This is very much Daine's story and her journey of coming of age. Numair is quite entertaining, and even though there are talking animals everywhere, they are only communicating with one person, so it wasn't as ridiculous as it could have been.

The pacing of this series is much better than that of the original series, which was unfortunately chopped up and meddled with by the publisher. I'm curious to see if this will follow just the one arc that is set up here, or if the next three books will have a broader focus, like the Song of the Lioness novellas. It also helps that Pierce had more pages to develop her story in this quartet compared to the first one.

The narration for this quartet is a full-cast audio, which is a bit of a mixed bag. I do like that each character has their own actor, and most of them do a great job. However, the main narrator sounds rather wooden and mechanical. I'm not sure if she was attempting to maintain a neutral tone to contrast with the characters, but it was sometimes jarring.

I know, I know. Review in haste, repent in leisure. But I just devoured this book and I simply must share it with everyone I hold dear. It's the most enchanting animal-communication fantasy I've ever had the pleasure of reading. There are three additional books in the series, so I'm not entirely sure yet what to make of the whole. It could potentially get even better, or it might lose the wonder that defines Daine's younger years and the start of her journey, as presented here. I'll be sure to keep you updated. However, this book can stand alone, and it's overwhelmingly special. I want to gush about it right now.

If you're an avid fantasy reader and already have your own favorite tale featuring animal telepathy, I can't guarantee that this one will completely overshadow them all. For starters, it's clearly a YA novel (with a 13-year-old protagonist and a rather wholesome atmosphere), so you may have a stronger affinity for another book's more mature lead. After all, these things are personal and subjective. Beyond the fact of its young heroine, this book has a charm to it that I believe stems from the kind of soul that is most often inspired to write about pure, magical, idealized, and beautiful bonds with animals. I don't think one becomes a writer of such stories in the first place without being introverted, sensitive, and dealing with some profound anguish that sometimes seems insurmountable. But while some authors will subject their characters to truly horrifying and grisly experiences in order to balance out just a few moments of transcendental connection and love, Pierce is crafting a much gentler series where the sad and frightening events are portrayed in a PG-13 manner (by no means simplistic, juvenile, or unintelligent - just never gory, vulgar, or overly detailed), and the lovely bits are more liberally interspersed. There is a subtle, kind humor throughout this book. Loving, loyal friends and families are depicted. And there is the very, very beginning of a master-student romance, which I only know for sure becomes one because I've read other books set in this universe. Nothing even remotely inappropriate occurs in this book (where, I remind you, Daine is only 13). But if you're aware of what's being set up, it's all the more touching (and just a little bit swoon-worthy) to witness its inception.

There are significant scenes featuring horses, cats, bats, whales, sea lions, owls, dragons, griffons, wolves, kraken, rabbits... Pierce endows each of these species with distinct and sometimes incredibly surprising personalities. Oh, and there's also some sort of gigantic glowing badger god who clearly has some epic awesomeness in store. And all of this serves a story set in a richly detailed world with meaningful stakes and plot developments that both surprise and satisfy. I smiled, laughed, imagined a great deal, and even teared up on several occasions.

Seriously, I adore this book. The world is a better place because this book exists. If there's anything within you, anywhere, that is predisposed to such things, you'll wish you had Daine's wild magic and could encounter these characters - whether in their world or ours.

I'm about to embark on book 2 right now.

AHH!! Reading this was total nostalgia and gave me such good vibes. It was like seeing your best friend after a really long time and it feels like no time has passed.

The Immortals quartet is such a special series in my heart. Although I never read the Alanna quartet like all the cool kids did, Daine and Numair contain my childhood and intro to fantasy. I never liked fantasy as a genre before I read this book. I thought it was too info-dumpy and nothing I read was interesting.
Then you get Wild Magic which, to me, is the perfect blend of world-building and developed characters and abilities. Daine has this Wild Magic with animals and communicating with them, but she trains and she learns about animals and about healing. I thought that is the most special aspect that is rarely seen in fantasy novels. How does their ability work?

I honestly forgot so many things that happen in this book (it's been 8 years!) and I was so surprised that I still loved it as before. I still admire Daine for the strength in what she has been through and continual love she gives to her friends (animals and humans alike). Little me was shipping Numair and Daine and I am still on that boat!

I love how subtle Tamora Pierce drops information about Numair like how he is a black robe or that he is really protective of Daine yet allows her to grow. Honestly, it is strange to think that Daine is 13 and Numair's in his late 20s...so 27? But just seeing them interact like Daine is much wiser beyond her years and Numair is childish and when the two are together, it feels like there's no age difference at all!

Horses were everywhere and I always love having some dragons and battles and a kraken happening up in here. I just don't know what else to say because I was just so happy while reading it. When I wasn't reading the book, I wanted to read it and when I was reading it, I wanted to keep reading it.
P.S. This reread made me want to go read smol Numair in Tempests and Slaughter.

Cover thoughts: Man am I glad they redid the covers for these books because all of the editions looked very 90s with the drawing or it came in that weird pocket size that fits terribly on the shelves. I just wished instead of the badger (I get why they did, though) they would have used a horse instead. Did I just buy the box set even though I own book 2-4? Yes, yes I did.

4.5

I had an extensive car journey with my younger son during the winter holidays. As I was driving, I was in search of something for us to listen to. I had really liked the way the Full-Cast Audio recordings had functioned for the stories that Tamora Pierce had penned to be launched on audiobook initially. So, I eagerly seized the opportunity to reread Wild Magic.

Employing a distinct actor for each character operates splendidly during Wild Magic. The different voices bring the characters to life in a vivid and engaging manner. It adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the story. I cannot recommend the audiobook experience highly enough. It makes the journey more enjoyable and captivating, allowing both my son and me to fully immerse ourselves in the magical world of Wild Magic.

One of my all-time favorite comfort books is right up there with the beloved Harry Potter series.

I have an insatiable appetite for reading any of the books set in the enchanting world of Tortall.

Wild Magic was the very first book that introduced me to this magical realm when I was just a kid, and my love for it has only grown stronger with each passing year.

The vivid descriptions, captivating characters, and thrilling adventures in these books have the power to transport me to a place of pure joy and wonder.

Whenever I need a break from the chaos of the real world, I simply pick up one of these books and lose myself in the magical land of Tortall.

It's like a warm hug for my soul, and I will always cherish these books as some of the most precious treasures in my literary collection.

Am I padding my Goodreads count a bit by rereading beloved old YA books found in my parents’ house? MAYBE.

But there's something truly special about going back to those formative childhood texts. They hold a certain charm and nostalgia that can't be replicated.

Rereading these books allows me to relive those precious moments and emotions that I felt when I first read them.

Each page turn brings back memories of a younger me, completely engrossed in the fictional worlds and characters.

And that's why I give them five stars. You simply can't give anything less to the books that had such a profound impact on shaping who you are today.

They are not just books; they are a part of my personal history and a testament to the power of literature.

So, even if it might seem like I'm padding my Goodreads count, in reality, I'm embarking on a journey of rediscovery and self-reflection.

And I wouldn't have it any other way.

This is my very first time delving into another Tamora Pierce book, stepping outside the beloved Alanna series. And I have to say, I liked it an awful lot.

I truly think that Pierce's writing has taken a significant leap forward. The pacing in this book is far better than in some of her previous works. It keeps the story flowing smoothly and keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

I am absolutely in love with Daine as the main character. Her abilities are simply the best! The way she interacts with the magical creatures is both enchanting and fascinating. I find myself completely invested in her journey and eager to see where this series will lead.

Let's face it, Daine is already mega powerful. I'm really not sure how her powers could possibly develop any further. But that's exactly what makes it so exciting. I can't wait to find out what new surprises and challenges await her in the upcoming books.

This was an absolute blast! I adored the concept, fell in love with the characters, and relished the return to the captivating world of Tortall that I had cherished in the Lioness series. Alanna, that beloved character, still makes a delightful appearance as well!

Daine, a young and petite thirteen-year-old girl, has unfortunately outlived her family. However, she has a remarkable affinity for animals. Her bond with her horse, Cloud, is particularly strong. She then meets Onua, who takes her on as an assistant to care for the ponies she is transporting to Tortall. Daine's connection to animals proves to be extremely helpful in this regard.

Daine, who had previously disappointed her mother by not having the traditional Gift, discovers that she has Wild Magic instead. This explains her deep connection to the animal kingdom. After assisting Numair, a mage, she befriends him and he takes her on as a student. She must now learn to control her Wild Magic to the best of her ability, although she knows it will never be fully controllable. She forms connections with a wide variety of animals, from majestic whales and playful sea lions to the charming woodland creatures like pine martins. As a huge lover of nature myself, I truly adored this aspect of the story.

Overall, this was such a fun and fast-paced book, filled with great characters, both new and familiar. It was a joy to read and I can't wait to explore more of this wonderful world.