Review by salsajenny -- The Toki-Girl and the Sparrow-Bo...

[salsajenny]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Toki-Girl and the Sparrow-Boy Book 1" by Claire Youmans.]
[rbc=4]id88453-125[/rbc]The Toki-Girl & Sparrow-Boy by Claire Youmans is an adventure-filled story weaving together the lives of human and animal characters from different cultures set in ancient Japan. As the story begins, we are introduced to a sorrowful couple yearning to have children. Despite their unhappiness, the couple continue to work hard and honor the local spirits, known as Jizo, represented by statues in the novel. Their honor and devotion to the Jizo is rewarded, and soon their home and family increase as they are blessed with two magical half-human/half-bird children, known as Toki. Their children’s names are Azuki and Shota. While these siblings bring joy to their parents, they also bring challenges to their family. The older daughter, Azuki, is captured by an overlord who covets her beautiful, desirous feathers. We follow these siblings as they travel across country, and seas, making friends with new people and new animals. Throughout this story, readers witness how Azuki and Shota undertake trials but continue their family’s tradition of honor and loyalty.

I appreciate how the author, Ms. Youmans, was able to interweave an adventure story with elements of ancient Japanese culture. Readers can gain a sense of what it would have been like to live in ancient Japan through the descriptions of food, scenery and cultural traditions.

I also enjoyed the unique characters that the author created. While there are stereotypical villains in the story, we also see examples of characters that embody the best of human traits such as bravery, love, and loyalty to family above self. It is also interesting to read about the interactions of the siblings in the story, and their opposing personalities. Like real families, this brother and sister team are different in many ways. While they may disagree, their unique personalities and physical traits complement each other. They combine their strengths to work together to overcome their hardships. The diverseness of these characters enhances the story. Likewise, diverse readers will be able to identify with the various personalities of the characters.

Another wonderful element in The Toki-Girl & Sparrow-Boy is the inclusion of original art work by various young artists. The author’s takes time, at the end of the novel, to show his appreciation for these young artists, “Thank you all for your talent and imagination. May your creativity always continue to spread its wings and fly.” Not only has the author provided her readers with a story to ignite our imaginations, she further goes on to encourage more artistic endeavors of her audience.

I believe that the author did a wonderful job in creating characters and an adventure for her readers. My one dislike of this story is a wish to know more about these characters. Since the story is face-paced, I feel there are details about their experiences, emotions, and personalities that have not been included, but would enhance our story-reading experience. Perhaps if the author plans for sequels, she will continue to provide more details about her brilliant characters.

I believe this story would be enjoyed by young readers that are interested in reading fiction novels especially stories involving magical characters and science fiction. Also, readers that enjoy suspense and spy novels would also appreciate this story. I believe that readers will identify with the struggles and difficult choices that the characters must make. The chapter size and vocabulary would make this story a great fit for upper elementary and middle school readers.

I am rating this book 4 out of 4 stars for its inventive, magical story interwoven with elements of historic Japan. Although I found one editing error, I believe that this book was professionally edited. The layout was easy to read, and it was nice to have each chapter divided by a piece of artwork.

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The Toki-Girl and the Sparrow-Boy Book 1
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