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Young Warriors: Stories of Strength
WHAT MAKES A warrior?
This gutsy collection of 15 original short stories compiled by bestselling author Tamora Pierce and anthologist-author Josepha Sherman answers this question with thought, heart, a lot of variety, and an occasional wink.
Contributors include some of today’s most-beloved fantasy and sciencefiction Tamora Pierce, Holly Black, Pamela Service, Margaret Mahy, Bruce Holland Rogers, Mike Resnick, Brent Hartinger, and more.
This gutsy collection of 15 original short stories compiled by bestselling author Tamora Pierce and anthologist-author Josepha Sherman answers this question with thought, heart, a lot of variety, and an occasional wink.
Contributors include some of today’s most-beloved fantasy and sciencefiction Tamora Pierce, Holly Black, Pamela Service, Margaret Mahy, Bruce Holland Rogers, Mike Resnick, Brent Hartinger, and more.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published October 11, 2005
61 people are currently reading
3162 people want to read
About the author
Tamora Pierce
99 books85.2k followersHey, 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!
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!
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May 4, 2020
Hang on, stop. This book isn't written by Tamora Pierce? It's a collection compiled by her? Well, hold onto your bookmarks, because you're going to want to read this beauty straight through. Turns out she's got damn good taste.
Mactun is offered The Gift of Rain Mountain by its spirit when he cuts through delivering messages. In this story by Bruce Holland Rogers, Mactun's stuck running them because he's the lowest warrior on the totem pole so he takes the direct route through the spirit's territory to at least impress someone with his speed. But the mountain has its dangers and the spirit does its best to tempt him from his path. It's a good sign that there's such an engaging opening story in the collection, particularly one that sets such an interesting tone where even the purest intentions can turn on you. The best part of this one is how, even though the spirit's final offer was beneficial to everyone, it was Mactun's greed that made him hold out that long.
The mermaid Neesha finds The Magestone (by S.M. & Jan Stirling) in the hands of a human sailor boy and endeavors to steal it back and use it to help win the war against the humans who'd kidnapped their mage. But the stone isn't so keen to part with either her or the boy, and they must learn to work together to rescue the tortured magic user. Another great story; I'm a sucker for mermaids and this one was pretty fantastic and with just the right ratio of fairy tale to kickass.
Eli has refused to marry the girl his parents chose for him, but aside from a few awkward encounters that seemed to be the end of things. Until one day Leah stops acting like herself. In Eli and the Dybbuk by Janis Ian, Eli steps into the role of the white knight he'd always wanted to be and looks to save the poor girl from the evil spirit squatting in her body. An enjoyable story that... you know what? It's getting really hard to say something about these stories because they're all good and I'm starting to sound repetitive. There's just nothing wrong with any of them. I usually go through these short story reviews at a good clip, but I keep stopping to reread them, and it's taking me forever. So, it's a great story, please read it to see why I'm complaining.
Ada is Heartless (by Holly Black). You need to be to do what she does, robbing the enemy dead and worrying along at the heels of the army men. It sucks the life out of you if you let it get to you, so you need to be heartless or you'll wind up dead. But when Ada happens across a badly wounded nobleman she finds herself driven to go against everything she's learned and everything she's done that's managed to keep her alive. She only hopes they'll be something to gain at the end of it. Heartless is a dark story with a bittersweet ending and a heroine who doesn't know why she's being one when no good will come of it for her. It's heart wrenching and touching, and I'm always crying a little at the ending.
Amanitari should have been queen in Lioness by Pamela Service, but she was tucked off to serve at the temple of the God of War while her brother was sent to battle their Roman invaders. But when her brother dies in battle and Tari arrives to lead the troops, she is eager to show the Romans what a girl serving the God of War is capable of. What a ride this was. It's an ancient Egyptian battle royale with a kickass war leader and her lion companion.
Helen of Troy. That is all. Thunderbolt by Esther Friesner was one of the best pieces in the book. It takes a look at the story of Helen through her own eyes while at the same time mocking the record of men changing history to erase women's accomplishments. Woman or not, Helen is a Spartan and she isn't going to take this shit.
The Devil Wind by India Edghill blows up a hellstorm in India when a father takes advantage of an uprising to kill his family and blame it on the locals. But his daughter's nanny escapes the bloodbath and the young woman puts her future in the hands of a witch to get revenge for the innocent child. One of the best stories in the book, easily. I adore things that take place during the English colonization of India, mostly due to the stark contrast between the two cultures, partly because my favorites all involve magic and revenge.
In The Boy Who Cried "Dragon!" by Mike Resnick a boy goes dragon hunting and instead makes a friend. A sweet story of a pair of cute dorks trying to grow up faster so they can prove themselves to their bullies, only to discover qualities in each other that they see as gifts but that the other would love to be rid of.
I'm a fan of Tamora Pierce's work, so I was thrilled to see her story, Student of Ostriches, was the story of a character whose name was dropped in her book Lioness Rampant . When I first heard of the Shang Unicorn I'd thought it was pretty cool. The Shang warriors are badasses, and I had the impression the Unicorn was this pretty-pink-princess badass. But in Student of Ostriches we learn that Kylaia grew up on the Tortall equivalent of the Serengeti, small and fierce. Watching the goat herds gave her plenty of time to observe the local wildlife, and she taught herself to fight by mimicking the techniques they used and practicing through years of hard work and dedication. When her sister is wronged by a suitor, Kylaia steps forward to defend her honor and comes to the attention of the Shang Falcon. It's a really great story and makes the Unicorn even more interesting, though I hope there's still a pretty-pink-princess badass in the ranks somewhere.
Gulpilil's sister's village is attacked by a beast sent by the All-Father in Serpent's Rock by Laura Anne Gilman, and he refuses to be one of those who give her up for dead. He ventures out in secret to slay the beast, or to die trying to do the right thing. There's a heartbeat to this story with the mantra Gulpilil repeats and adds to as he travels to shore up his courage. It's a solid adventure with an ending that leaves you still wondering about what he'll find of his sister and her village.
It is an honor to be called a warrior in Hidden Warriors by Margaret Mahy, better still to be compared to the prophesized Hidden Warrior of legend. But despite what he's called, all the magician Heriot feels is exhausted. Though he is strong in magic he has great faults that are about to be exploited, and blinders about to be violently removed. A lovely story of betrayal, with a hero who goes out of their way to defeat their lot in life.
Kelyn is the clumsy one in her hunting pack and no one will let her forget it, but she's also the best hunter among them, ever clever and observant. When their group is set upon by slavers in Emerging Legacy by Doranna Durgin it's up to Kelyn to lead her friends to freedom. A nice take-charge story of a capable but clumsy character who uses her skills and flaws to the advantage of others, and finds a gift for leadership in the process.
An Axe for Men by Rosemary Edghill gives us an interesting look at an extravagant Egyptian-esque world run by women and their Goddess. When their home is destroyed and the entire city takes to the sands for their new prophesised home, a dissenter among the head priestess's entourage starts getting visions from an unknown God, and learns that the priestess isn't so much guided by the Goddess as she is grasping at strings. It's a world where the Gods/Goddesses are shifting to better care for the people, and that's one of the most intriguing things I've read for a long time, and the story pulls it off really well.
Bridget and Maire are schoolgirls in Ireland, bossed by the nuns and excited for the day they can escape the boarding school. But when they adopt the new girl Miriam into their group in Acts of Faith by Lesley McBain, they learn of a world where blackout curtains are the least of the changes going on, and where girls like their new friend are hunted for matters beyond their control. This is a cute story of three girls during the days of Hitler's rein, with plenty of Irish magic and religious conflict to go around.
Swords That Talk by Brent Hartinger gives us Brinn, who is past the age of proving his mettle (what's the world coming to when you run out of wars?) and gets the idea to steal some treasure from a famous guardian troll. While the idea of a talking sword that doesn't know when to shut up tickles me every time I see it, the sword isn't really the focus in this story. It's more about Brinn's crisis of faith as he's being talked around and out of stealing the treasure he'd come for.
THE VERDICT? When I first read Young Warriors I couldn't believe what I was seeing. A book filled with stories of young, often teenage, fighters who battled for a wide variety of reasons and who possessed a range of capabilities, and in some cases even lost or came out the worse for it. No love triangles, no characters talking down to the reader's intelligence, just good, solid people I'd be proud to spread the exploits of. Suffice it to say that I went out and bought the book before I'd even returned it to the library. I was in the middle of a major weeding, but there are some books that just need to be nearby, and this is one of them.
Mactun is offered The Gift of Rain Mountain by its spirit when he cuts through delivering messages. In this story by Bruce Holland Rogers, Mactun's stuck running them because he's the lowest warrior on the totem pole so he takes the direct route through the spirit's territory to at least impress someone with his speed. But the mountain has its dangers and the spirit does its best to tempt him from his path. It's a good sign that there's such an engaging opening story in the collection, particularly one that sets such an interesting tone where even the purest intentions can turn on you. The best part of this one is how, even though the spirit's final offer was beneficial to everyone, it was Mactun's greed that made him hold out that long.
The mermaid Neesha finds The Magestone (by S.M. & Jan Stirling) in the hands of a human sailor boy and endeavors to steal it back and use it to help win the war against the humans who'd kidnapped their mage. But the stone isn't so keen to part with either her or the boy, and they must learn to work together to rescue the tortured magic user. Another great story; I'm a sucker for mermaids and this one was pretty fantastic and with just the right ratio of fairy tale to kickass.
Eli has refused to marry the girl his parents chose for him, but aside from a few awkward encounters that seemed to be the end of things. Until one day Leah stops acting like herself. In Eli and the Dybbuk by Janis Ian, Eli steps into the role of the white knight he'd always wanted to be and looks to save the poor girl from the evil spirit squatting in her body. An enjoyable story that... you know what? It's getting really hard to say something about these stories because they're all good and I'm starting to sound repetitive. There's just nothing wrong with any of them. I usually go through these short story reviews at a good clip, but I keep stopping to reread them, and it's taking me forever. So, it's a great story, please read it to see why I'm complaining.
Ada is Heartless (by Holly Black). You need to be to do what she does, robbing the enemy dead and worrying along at the heels of the army men. It sucks the life out of you if you let it get to you, so you need to be heartless or you'll wind up dead. But when Ada happens across a badly wounded nobleman she finds herself driven to go against everything she's learned and everything she's done that's managed to keep her alive. She only hopes they'll be something to gain at the end of it. Heartless is a dark story with a bittersweet ending and a heroine who doesn't know why she's being one when no good will come of it for her. It's heart wrenching and touching, and I'm always crying a little at the ending.
Amanitari should have been queen in Lioness by Pamela Service, but she was tucked off to serve at the temple of the God of War while her brother was sent to battle their Roman invaders. But when her brother dies in battle and Tari arrives to lead the troops, she is eager to show the Romans what a girl serving the God of War is capable of. What a ride this was. It's an ancient Egyptian battle royale with a kickass war leader and her lion companion.
Helen of Troy. That is all. Thunderbolt by Esther Friesner was one of the best pieces in the book. It takes a look at the story of Helen through her own eyes while at the same time mocking the record of men changing history to erase women's accomplishments. Woman or not, Helen is a Spartan and she isn't going to take this shit.
The Devil Wind by India Edghill blows up a hellstorm in India when a father takes advantage of an uprising to kill his family and blame it on the locals. But his daughter's nanny escapes the bloodbath and the young woman puts her future in the hands of a witch to get revenge for the innocent child. One of the best stories in the book, easily. I adore things that take place during the English colonization of India, mostly due to the stark contrast between the two cultures, partly because my favorites all involve magic and revenge.
In The Boy Who Cried "Dragon!" by Mike Resnick a boy goes dragon hunting and instead makes a friend. A sweet story of a pair of cute dorks trying to grow up faster so they can prove themselves to their bullies, only to discover qualities in each other that they see as gifts but that the other would love to be rid of.
I'm a fan of Tamora Pierce's work, so I was thrilled to see her story, Student of Ostriches, was the story of a character whose name was dropped in her book Lioness Rampant . When I first heard of the Shang Unicorn I'd thought it was pretty cool. The Shang warriors are badasses, and I had the impression the Unicorn was this pretty-pink-princess badass. But in Student of Ostriches we learn that Kylaia grew up on the Tortall equivalent of the Serengeti, small and fierce. Watching the goat herds gave her plenty of time to observe the local wildlife, and she taught herself to fight by mimicking the techniques they used and practicing through years of hard work and dedication. When her sister is wronged by a suitor, Kylaia steps forward to defend her honor and comes to the attention of the Shang Falcon. It's a really great story and makes the Unicorn even more interesting, though I hope there's still a pretty-pink-princess badass in the ranks somewhere.
Gulpilil's sister's village is attacked by a beast sent by the All-Father in Serpent's Rock by Laura Anne Gilman, and he refuses to be one of those who give her up for dead. He ventures out in secret to slay the beast, or to die trying to do the right thing. There's a heartbeat to this story with the mantra Gulpilil repeats and adds to as he travels to shore up his courage. It's a solid adventure with an ending that leaves you still wondering about what he'll find of his sister and her village.
It is an honor to be called a warrior in Hidden Warriors by Margaret Mahy, better still to be compared to the prophesized Hidden Warrior of legend. But despite what he's called, all the magician Heriot feels is exhausted. Though he is strong in magic he has great faults that are about to be exploited, and blinders about to be violently removed. A lovely story of betrayal, with a hero who goes out of their way to defeat their lot in life.
Kelyn is the clumsy one in her hunting pack and no one will let her forget it, but she's also the best hunter among them, ever clever and observant. When their group is set upon by slavers in Emerging Legacy by Doranna Durgin it's up to Kelyn to lead her friends to freedom. A nice take-charge story of a capable but clumsy character who uses her skills and flaws to the advantage of others, and finds a gift for leadership in the process.
An Axe for Men by Rosemary Edghill gives us an interesting look at an extravagant Egyptian-esque world run by women and their Goddess. When their home is destroyed and the entire city takes to the sands for their new prophesised home, a dissenter among the head priestess's entourage starts getting visions from an unknown God, and learns that the priestess isn't so much guided by the Goddess as she is grasping at strings. It's a world where the Gods/Goddesses are shifting to better care for the people, and that's one of the most intriguing things I've read for a long time, and the story pulls it off really well.
Bridget and Maire are schoolgirls in Ireland, bossed by the nuns and excited for the day they can escape the boarding school. But when they adopt the new girl Miriam into their group in Acts of Faith by Lesley McBain, they learn of a world where blackout curtains are the least of the changes going on, and where girls like their new friend are hunted for matters beyond their control. This is a cute story of three girls during the days of Hitler's rein, with plenty of Irish magic and religious conflict to go around.
Swords That Talk by Brent Hartinger gives us Brinn, who is past the age of proving his mettle (what's the world coming to when you run out of wars?) and gets the idea to steal some treasure from a famous guardian troll. While the idea of a talking sword that doesn't know when to shut up tickles me every time I see it, the sword isn't really the focus in this story. It's more about Brinn's crisis of faith as he's being talked around and out of stealing the treasure he'd come for.
THE VERDICT? When I first read Young Warriors I couldn't believe what I was seeing. A book filled with stories of young, often teenage, fighters who battled for a wide variety of reasons and who possessed a range of capabilities, and in some cases even lost or came out the worse for it. No love triangles, no characters talking down to the reader's intelligence, just good, solid people I'd be proud to spread the exploits of. Suffice it to say that I went out and bought the book before I'd even returned it to the library. I was in the middle of a major weeding, but there are some books that just need to be nearby, and this is one of them.
December 11, 2017
I'm reviewing/making notes as I go along. WIP.
January 28, 2008
I had a difficult time engaging with the characters before the stories ended. It was extremely frustrating.
December 18, 2010
A collection of stories about warriors coming into their own. As is generally the case with collections, it's a mixed bag, though with more good than bad. The bad:
"The Magestone" by SM and Jan Stirling. The writing isn't great, but the story (about a n00b sailor who tries to help free a mermaid shaman) makes no sense, either in terms of plot or character.
"The Boy Who Cried 'Dragon!'" by Mike Resnick. Tried too hard to be funny and utterly failed.
"Hidden Warriors" by Margaret Mahy. The dialog is so, so stilted and terrible.
Rosemary Edghill's "An Axe for Men" puzzled me. A flood destroys the city of a matriarchal society. As the people journey into the wilderness, one of the young priestesses starts having visions of a new god. And so she takes the power away from the priestesses who worship a goddess in favor of a god. It's all very gender essentialist and framed in such a way that all the women (except the rebelling priestess main character) are presented as foolish and lazy, while all the men are either emasculated or Manly Hunting Men Who are Manly. Apparently men need to be in charge if you want to survive the wilderness?
I liked "Heartless" by Holly Black, despite the fact that it feels like a novella or novel compacted and edited into a short story. If this were a novel, I would have loved it. As it is, the bones of the plot, the characters, and the language are good enough to make it an enjoyable short story. Tamora Pierce helped edit this collection, and also wrote "Student of Ostriches," which I quite enjoyed as well. Pierce is known for writing the quintessential "young female warriors proving their worth ye olde society" stories, but her quality has fallen off in the last decade. This story, set in Alanna's world but far away, in a desert filled with ostriches and camels, injects fresh energy and flavor to a tired formula.
I loved "Thunderbolt," by Esther Friesner. Theseus marries Helen, a princess of Sparta. But Helen refuses to pretend her beauty is all she is. Her sarcastic inner voice is a fabulous narration for her badass actions. The story is good enough that I'm going to make a point to find Friesner's other works.
"The Magestone" by SM and Jan Stirling. The writing isn't great, but the story (about a n00b sailor who tries to help free a mermaid shaman) makes no sense, either in terms of plot or character.
"The Boy Who Cried 'Dragon!'" by Mike Resnick. Tried too hard to be funny and utterly failed.
"Hidden Warriors" by Margaret Mahy. The dialog is so, so stilted and terrible.
Rosemary Edghill's "An Axe for Men" puzzled me. A flood destroys the city of a matriarchal society. As the people journey into the wilderness, one of the young priestesses starts having visions of a new god. And so she takes the power away from the priestesses who worship a goddess in favor of a god. It's all very gender essentialist and framed in such a way that all the women (except the rebelling priestess main character) are presented as foolish and lazy, while all the men are either emasculated or Manly Hunting Men Who are Manly. Apparently men need to be in charge if you want to survive the wilderness?
I liked "Heartless" by Holly Black, despite the fact that it feels like a novella or novel compacted and edited into a short story. If this were a novel, I would have loved it. As it is, the bones of the plot, the characters, and the language are good enough to make it an enjoyable short story. Tamora Pierce helped edit this collection, and also wrote "Student of Ostriches," which I quite enjoyed as well. Pierce is known for writing the quintessential "young female warriors proving their worth ye olde society" stories, but her quality has fallen off in the last decade. This story, set in Alanna's world but far away, in a desert filled with ostriches and camels, injects fresh energy and flavor to a tired formula.
I loved "Thunderbolt," by Esther Friesner. Theseus marries Helen, a princess of Sparta. But Helen refuses to pretend her beauty is all she is. Her sarcastic inner voice is a fabulous narration for her badass actions. The story is good enough that I'm going to make a point to find Friesner's other works.
September 5, 2010
I am not usually a fan of short stories, but this anthology piqued my interest because 1) it contains a story by Tamora Pierce, 2) it is EDITED by Tamora Pierce (along with Josepha Sherman), and 3) it includes the short story that became the basis for Esther Friesner's Helen of Sparta books (which I just read).
While those stories alone would have been worth the price of admission to me, I found plenty more to love in this collection. There are stories set in a very wide variety of times, locations, and mythologies - the ancient kingdoms of Africa, British-occupied India (that was one of my absolute favorites), a very traditional Jewish community, a couple of fantasy lands (both silly and serious), and even neutral WWII-era Ireland. The stories involve magic, folklore, mysticism, religion, politics, battle... basically showing that there are many, many ways to be a warrior.
This is a really great collection and I'd strongly recommend it to fantasy fans, or even someone looking to find out what the genre's all about.
* side note: This book's original cover is a strong statement against the white-washing of book covers, especially in YA! Yay for the publishers - the cover images actually fit the stories!
While those stories alone would have been worth the price of admission to me, I found plenty more to love in this collection. There are stories set in a very wide variety of times, locations, and mythologies - the ancient kingdoms of Africa, British-occupied India (that was one of my absolute favorites), a very traditional Jewish community, a couple of fantasy lands (both silly and serious), and even neutral WWII-era Ireland. The stories involve magic, folklore, mysticism, religion, politics, battle... basically showing that there are many, many ways to be a warrior.
This is a really great collection and I'd strongly recommend it to fantasy fans, or even someone looking to find out what the genre's all about.
* side note: This book's original cover is a strong statement against the white-washing of book covers, especially in YA! Yay for the publishers - the cover images actually fit the stories!
June 17, 2014
Young Warriors is a strong anthology about what it means not only to be a warrior but also an adult. The fifteen stories follow young people all making choices about what's important to them whether that's a girl who learns to fight from the animals she sees in her chores to others who learn fighting isn't where strength comes from. I found this a good collection of stories with a diverse mix of characters and stories. I would recommend it to a young adult reader with the warning that it does contain some violence and references to sexism.
August 6, 2019
In the introduction of this book, Tamora Pierce promises to turn the term "warrior" on it's head with this anthology of stories. Did she succeed? Certainly every story in this collection pitched a question about what it was be a warrior, the consequences of a warrior's actions, and just what our young people are capable of. I loved that all of these stories were diverse in genres, cultures, writing styles, plot scenarios, and cast of characters.
The stories:-
The Gift of Rain by Bruce Holland Rogers: A boy on the verge of becoming a warrior, who is afraid of the consequences of war, unknowingly changes his fate when he meets a trickster-fae like spirit. 3*
The Magestone by S.M. and Jan Sterling: Sailor boy meets mermaid and they go beneath the waves on a quest together. 3*
Eli and the Dybbuk by Janis Ian: An Eastern European inspired story about a boy who helps a woman possessed by an evil spirit and deliberates on what it is to be a soldier. 4*
Heartless by Holly Black: Hedge-witch loses her heart during a war, but when she's obliged to help an enemy soldier she regains her heart once more. This was my first time reading anything by Holly Black and I can see why people rave so much about her writing. 4*
Lioness by Pamela F Service: A twist on the old Helen of Troy story, but in this version Helen saves herself. Didn't like the character of Helen though, she was mean and bossy. 2*
Devil Wind by India Edghill: Inspired by Indian folklore, this is a story about an Englishman murdering his family out of greed and a young girl who avenges their deaths. 3*
The Boy Who Cried "Dragon" by Mike Resnick: A boy who has to slay a dragon, but instead chooses to befriend one. This story was silly and funny and sarcastic. In short, it was great. 3*
Student of Ostriches by Tamora Pierce: A young tribe girl learns to fight by watching animals on an African plain setting. I might be biased rating this one since it was written by one of my favourite authors, but it was so good! 5*
Serpents Rock by Laura Anne Gilman: An earthquake releases a monster into Gulpilil's lands and, concerned for his sister's safety, he goes looking for it with the help of a couple of guardian spirits. 3*
Hidden Warriors by Margaret Mahy: An arrogant, misogynistic magician and a hidden warrior team up to take down baddies. Would have liked this better if the magician wasn't in it at all. 3*
Emerging Legacy by Doranna Durgin: Slavers try to kidnap a group of young adolescents in the mountains but a haphazard, clumsy yound leader finds her confidence and kicks ass. 5*
An Axe For Men by Rosemary Edghill: A matriarchal society crumbles and a patriarchal society rises during a natural disaster. Not entirely sure how I feel about the concept, but the writing and story was really good. 4*
Acts of Faith by Lesley McBain: Three young girls in Ireland, all suffering in a convent during one of the world wars, escape together to NYC. I would love a book about these three feisty girls' adventures in New York. 4*
Swords That Talk by Brent Hartinger: There's a troll and some hidden treasure, and a young warrior who has to choose between slaying the troll and claiming the treasure for his poor people or keeping the treasure hidden to avoid conflict with equally poor people. 3*
The stories:-
The Gift of Rain by Bruce Holland Rogers: A boy on the verge of becoming a warrior, who is afraid of the consequences of war, unknowingly changes his fate when he meets a trickster-fae like spirit. 3*
The Magestone by S.M. and Jan Sterling: Sailor boy meets mermaid and they go beneath the waves on a quest together. 3*
Eli and the Dybbuk by Janis Ian: An Eastern European inspired story about a boy who helps a woman possessed by an evil spirit and deliberates on what it is to be a soldier. 4*
Heartless by Holly Black: Hedge-witch loses her heart during a war, but when she's obliged to help an enemy soldier she regains her heart once more. This was my first time reading anything by Holly Black and I can see why people rave so much about her writing. 4*
Lioness by Pamela F Service: A twist on the old Helen of Troy story, but in this version Helen saves herself. Didn't like the character of Helen though, she was mean and bossy. 2*
Devil Wind by India Edghill: Inspired by Indian folklore, this is a story about an Englishman murdering his family out of greed and a young girl who avenges their deaths. 3*
The Boy Who Cried "Dragon" by Mike Resnick: A boy who has to slay a dragon, but instead chooses to befriend one. This story was silly and funny and sarcastic. In short, it was great. 3*
Student of Ostriches by Tamora Pierce: A young tribe girl learns to fight by watching animals on an African plain setting. I might be biased rating this one since it was written by one of my favourite authors, but it was so good! 5*
Serpents Rock by Laura Anne Gilman: An earthquake releases a monster into Gulpilil's lands and, concerned for his sister's safety, he goes looking for it with the help of a couple of guardian spirits. 3*
Hidden Warriors by Margaret Mahy: An arrogant, misogynistic magician and a hidden warrior team up to take down baddies. Would have liked this better if the magician wasn't in it at all. 3*
Emerging Legacy by Doranna Durgin: Slavers try to kidnap a group of young adolescents in the mountains but a haphazard, clumsy yound leader finds her confidence and kicks ass. 5*
An Axe For Men by Rosemary Edghill: A matriarchal society crumbles and a patriarchal society rises during a natural disaster. Not entirely sure how I feel about the concept, but the writing and story was really good. 4*
Acts of Faith by Lesley McBain: Three young girls in Ireland, all suffering in a convent during one of the world wars, escape together to NYC. I would love a book about these three feisty girls' adventures in New York. 4*
Swords That Talk by Brent Hartinger: There's a troll and some hidden treasure, and a young warrior who has to choose between slaying the troll and claiming the treasure for his poor people or keeping the treasure hidden to avoid conflict with equally poor people. 3*
July 21, 2012
I originally reviewed this book on my blog - The Cosy Dragon. For more recent reviews by me, please hop over there.
This is a book of short stories edited by Tamora Pierce and Josepha Sherman. It has a nice variety of authors. My usual policy of short stories is that I don't like them, except for finding new authors whose longer works I might enjoy.
'The Gift of Rain Mountain' has a traditional tempter and a traditional ending in my opinion. Although the young warrior thinks he wanted what is best for his community, his efforts leave him lacking. It's hard to say more about it without giving the story away, but the story itself feels very familiar. Nothing too exciting here in terms of narration or characterisation, although it's not badly written.
'The Magestone' lacks a little in my opinion. I didn't feel attracted to either character (the boy or the mermaid), and the plot with the mermaid unable to go on land - well it just made me think of Ariel! There was no real threat, it felt like the rival tribe members were too easily dealt with.
'Eli and the Dybbuk' is a slightly strange tale. With both elements of fantasy (the dybbuk spirit) and real life (Eli is Jewish) it is a good mix. It has lovely suspense, and a tight storyline. It feels more complete than the first two stories, with a proper lifetime tale. Eli is a well-fleshed out character, and the inclusion of a riddle does it for me!
'Heartless' is another well written story. At first it isn't obvious what is going on with Ada, and then suddenly the reader has a lightbulb moment! What isn't clear to me is why the bone was enchanted in the first place. It doesn't seem like the right thing to do at all. Ah well. I can see potential for this concept being extended further. I'm not sure that it really fits in with the theme of young warriors, as the protagonist isn't a young warrior, she is only dealing with one. The language and rhythm of this one is a little disjointed, but I think it reflects the character of Ada well.
'Lioness' is misleading. Those that are familiar with Pierce's other works will probably be hoping for a short tale about the Lioness. But this short story is by another author, and is very different. Similarly to 'The Gift of Rain Mountain', the author draws on history for making her story. It's enjoyable with the strong female protagonist.
'Thunderbolt' is a creative take on Helen of Troy's capture. Raised Spartan, Helen's as warlike as the men, and not willing to back down when she is stolen. It's good to see her standing up for herself for once! A well-executed rewrite of an old legend packed with action.
'Devil Wind' has to be one of my favourites. It has just a hint of magic and the wild, and at the same time rings of truth. The author has included true parts of rich Indian history, and it really appeals to me. The ending is a surprise, but it is fitting. There are things that the author could have done more with, but for a short story it is good. It reminds me a little of a Mercedes Lackey novel I read (I think The Wizard of London)
'The Boy Who Cried 'Dragon'' is a let down. It belongs in a collection of stories for very young readers - just because the dragon and the knight have teenage problems, it doesn't make the story any more engaging. I wasn't convinced that this was where the story of 'The Boy Who Cried 'Wolf'' came from either. The style isn't bad, but the content! Hopeless.
'Student of Ostriches' is good. I have to say, I generally didn't look at the author of each story so that I could give an unbiased opinion of the story on its own merits. I liked this one from the start, and then realised it was the Tamora Pierce offering of the collection! So no wonder I enjoyed it. It's nice to have some more information about Shang training, although I would have liked more details of how each kick/punch exactly translated from an animal source.
'Serpent's Rock' is initially hard to get into. It reminds me of an Aboriginal story song, and so I'm not very fond of it. I would have liked more details - but of course a short story is very limited. The ending wasn't as satisfying as I desired either, he still could die and the tale be left untold.
'Hidden Warriors' has an interesting concept but I feel that it is poorly executed. I didn't like the style of this author at all, finding it somewhat confusing. I'm a sucker for a woman dressed as a man, but in this case it couldn't work for me.
"Emerging Legacy' is fast paced with a well fleshed out female protagonist. The novel concept of hunting packs in the trees and mountains was an exciting one, as was the unexpected slavers. I didn't really understand where her clumsiness had come from though. As a young warrior however, she fits the bill. I think I would be willing to seek out more of this author's work in fact!
'An Axe for Men' is an enjoyable read. The style is initially a little stilted, but you start to feel with the characters and it's good. I found the storyline predictable, but it's bound to happen with me reading so many books. Take a chance and try it!
'Acts of Faith' mixes the Sight with Jewish and Christian faiths. Although I didn't know that the Sight involves magic too, apparently it does! An interesting take on Ireland's history for being neutral during the Nazi driven war.
'Swords That Talk' reminds me a little of Need in one of Mercedes Lackey's novels (The Oathbound perhaps?). Except that this story isn't really about the sword at all. The concept was again a familiar one, nothing too exciting here, but it was relatively well executed.
I bought this book from a specials table for $5 at my partner's old work! The advantages of having someone who works at a bookshop. I can understand why it was discounted though, as I don't think this is really a stand out collection of stories, although a couple are good. Worth collecting if there is a particular author that you love and want more of though.
This is a book of short stories edited by Tamora Pierce and Josepha Sherman. It has a nice variety of authors. My usual policy of short stories is that I don't like them, except for finding new authors whose longer works I might enjoy.
'The Gift of Rain Mountain' has a traditional tempter and a traditional ending in my opinion. Although the young warrior thinks he wanted what is best for his community, his efforts leave him lacking. It's hard to say more about it without giving the story away, but the story itself feels very familiar. Nothing too exciting here in terms of narration or characterisation, although it's not badly written.
'The Magestone' lacks a little in my opinion. I didn't feel attracted to either character (the boy or the mermaid), and the plot with the mermaid unable to go on land - well it just made me think of Ariel! There was no real threat, it felt like the rival tribe members were too easily dealt with.
'Eli and the Dybbuk' is a slightly strange tale. With both elements of fantasy (the dybbuk spirit) and real life (Eli is Jewish) it is a good mix. It has lovely suspense, and a tight storyline. It feels more complete than the first two stories, with a proper lifetime tale. Eli is a well-fleshed out character, and the inclusion of a riddle does it for me!
'Heartless' is another well written story. At first it isn't obvious what is going on with Ada, and then suddenly the reader has a lightbulb moment! What isn't clear to me is why the bone was enchanted in the first place. It doesn't seem like the right thing to do at all. Ah well. I can see potential for this concept being extended further. I'm not sure that it really fits in with the theme of young warriors, as the protagonist isn't a young warrior, she is only dealing with one. The language and rhythm of this one is a little disjointed, but I think it reflects the character of Ada well.
'Lioness' is misleading. Those that are familiar with Pierce's other works will probably be hoping for a short tale about the Lioness. But this short story is by another author, and is very different. Similarly to 'The Gift of Rain Mountain', the author draws on history for making her story. It's enjoyable with the strong female protagonist.
'Thunderbolt' is a creative take on Helen of Troy's capture. Raised Spartan, Helen's as warlike as the men, and not willing to back down when she is stolen. It's good to see her standing up for herself for once! A well-executed rewrite of an old legend packed with action.
'Devil Wind' has to be one of my favourites. It has just a hint of magic and the wild, and at the same time rings of truth. The author has included true parts of rich Indian history, and it really appeals to me. The ending is a surprise, but it is fitting. There are things that the author could have done more with, but for a short story it is good. It reminds me a little of a Mercedes Lackey novel I read (I think The Wizard of London)
'The Boy Who Cried 'Dragon'' is a let down. It belongs in a collection of stories for very young readers - just because the dragon and the knight have teenage problems, it doesn't make the story any more engaging. I wasn't convinced that this was where the story of 'The Boy Who Cried 'Wolf'' came from either. The style isn't bad, but the content! Hopeless.
'Student of Ostriches' is good. I have to say, I generally didn't look at the author of each story so that I could give an unbiased opinion of the story on its own merits. I liked this one from the start, and then realised it was the Tamora Pierce offering of the collection! So no wonder I enjoyed it. It's nice to have some more information about Shang training, although I would have liked more details of how each kick/punch exactly translated from an animal source.
'Serpent's Rock' is initially hard to get into. It reminds me of an Aboriginal story song, and so I'm not very fond of it. I would have liked more details - but of course a short story is very limited. The ending wasn't as satisfying as I desired either, he still could die and the tale be left untold.
'Hidden Warriors' has an interesting concept but I feel that it is poorly executed. I didn't like the style of this author at all, finding it somewhat confusing. I'm a sucker for a woman dressed as a man, but in this case it couldn't work for me.
"Emerging Legacy' is fast paced with a well fleshed out female protagonist. The novel concept of hunting packs in the trees and mountains was an exciting one, as was the unexpected slavers. I didn't really understand where her clumsiness had come from though. As a young warrior however, she fits the bill. I think I would be willing to seek out more of this author's work in fact!
'An Axe for Men' is an enjoyable read. The style is initially a little stilted, but you start to feel with the characters and it's good. I found the storyline predictable, but it's bound to happen with me reading so many books. Take a chance and try it!
'Acts of Faith' mixes the Sight with Jewish and Christian faiths. Although I didn't know that the Sight involves magic too, apparently it does! An interesting take on Ireland's history for being neutral during the Nazi driven war.
'Swords That Talk' reminds me a little of Need in one of Mercedes Lackey's novels (The Oathbound perhaps?). Except that this story isn't really about the sword at all. The concept was again a familiar one, nothing too exciting here, but it was relatively well executed.
I bought this book from a specials table for $5 at my partner's old work! The advantages of having someone who works at a bookshop. I can understand why it was discounted though, as I don't think this is really a stand out collection of stories, although a couple are good. Worth collecting if there is a particular author that you love and want more of though.
May 27, 2015
Content warnings: death, violence, blood, murder
I'm going to try to remember all of the stories individually and give thoughts on them.
The Gift of Rain Mountain (Bruce Holland Rogers)-- This was alright. Kind of slow and boring initially. Knew how it'd end (probably because I read too many stories about spirits/gods and trickery). Wasn't altogether impressed.
The Magestone (S.M. and Jan Stirling)-- Nice kind of twist for a mermaid tale. Didn't care much for the characters though. Good idea not so great execution.
Eli and the Dybbuk (Janis Ian)-- Jewish folklore. Arrogant mc. Was more interested in researching Jewish folklore than reading this story.
Heartless (Holly Black)-- Was ok and not very impressive. Ending felt kind of flat to me.
Lioness (Pamela F. Service)-- Actually really enjoyed. Loved this story and how things wound up.
Thunderbolt (Esther Friesner)-- Really enjoyed this one as well. We all know the story of Helen of Troy. I like this idea much better of her.
Devil Wind (India Edghill)-- Enjoyed the mixing of what appeared to possibly be Hindu beliefs and English beliefs. Definitely want to do more research into Hinduism other than the base knowledge I have about it. Story re-enforced it. Good story about revenge.
The Boy Who Cried "Dragon!" (Mike Resnick)-- Interesting take/twist on "The Boy Who Cried Wolf". If you know that tale you basically know this one.
Student of Ostriches (Tamora Pierce)-- Have already reviewed as it was a part of Tortall and Other Lands: A Collection of Tales. My thoughts haven't changed.
Serpent's Rock (Laura Anne Gilman)-- Started out kind of confusingly but then started to make a little more sense towards the end. Decent story.
Hidden Warriors (Margaret Mahy)-- Was alright. Felt more bard tale-y than short story but that's not necessarily bad.
Emerging Legacy (Doranna Durgin)-- Enjoyed a lot. Took a traditionally not desirable character trait and made it very desirable and useful.
An Axe for Men (Rosemary Edghill)-- Ehhhh....didn't much care for the whole axes should be for men motif of the story. Also don't care much for religion in and of itself (which is amusing considering I like the stories different religions have and like reading new ones of existing, not existing anymore, and fictional religions commonly referred to as folklore and myths) but this gave me a kind of icky feeling reading it that I can't explain (and have spent most of the day trying to figure out to explain).
Acts of Faith (Lesley McBain)-- Ireland. WWII. Jewish character. Pagan character. Belief. That's all I can say without spoiling. It was good.
Swords That Talk (Brent Hartinger)-- This was an interesting take on the whole "become a hero by doing x" tale. I enjoyed it. Left a bit of food for thought for me.
On the whole it was a decent collection of stories by authors I've never heard of and by extension read (minus Tamora Pierce). It was enjoyable to read.
I'm going to try to remember all of the stories individually and give thoughts on them.
The Gift of Rain Mountain (Bruce Holland Rogers)-- This was alright. Kind of slow and boring initially. Knew how it'd end (probably because I read too many stories about spirits/gods and trickery). Wasn't altogether impressed.
The Magestone (S.M. and Jan Stirling)-- Nice kind of twist for a mermaid tale. Didn't care much for the characters though. Good idea not so great execution.
Eli and the Dybbuk (Janis Ian)-- Jewish folklore. Arrogant mc. Was more interested in researching Jewish folklore than reading this story.
Heartless (Holly Black)-- Was ok and not very impressive. Ending felt kind of flat to me.
Lioness (Pamela F. Service)-- Actually really enjoyed. Loved this story and how things wound up.
Thunderbolt (Esther Friesner)-- Really enjoyed this one as well. We all know the story of Helen of Troy. I like this idea much better of her.
Devil Wind (India Edghill)-- Enjoyed the mixing of what appeared to possibly be Hindu beliefs and English beliefs. Definitely want to do more research into Hinduism other than the base knowledge I have about it. Story re-enforced it. Good story about revenge.
The Boy Who Cried "Dragon!" (Mike Resnick)-- Interesting take/twist on "The Boy Who Cried Wolf". If you know that tale you basically know this one.
Student of Ostriches (Tamora Pierce)-- Have already reviewed as it was a part of Tortall and Other Lands: A Collection of Tales. My thoughts haven't changed.
Serpent's Rock (Laura Anne Gilman)-- Started out kind of confusingly but then started to make a little more sense towards the end. Decent story.
Hidden Warriors (Margaret Mahy)-- Was alright. Felt more bard tale-y than short story but that's not necessarily bad.
Emerging Legacy (Doranna Durgin)-- Enjoyed a lot. Took a traditionally not desirable character trait and made it very desirable and useful.
An Axe for Men (Rosemary Edghill)-- Ehhhh....didn't much care for the whole axes should be for men motif of the story. Also don't care much for religion in and of itself (which is amusing considering I like the stories different religions have and like reading new ones of existing, not existing anymore, and fictional religions commonly referred to as folklore and myths) but this gave me a kind of icky feeling reading it that I can't explain (and have spent most of the day trying to figure out to explain).
Acts of Faith (Lesley McBain)-- Ireland. WWII. Jewish character. Pagan character. Belief. That's all I can say without spoiling. It was good.
Swords That Talk (Brent Hartinger)-- This was an interesting take on the whole "become a hero by doing x" tale. I enjoyed it. Left a bit of food for thought for me.
On the whole it was a decent collection of stories by authors I've never heard of and by extension read (minus Tamora Pierce). It was enjoyable to read.
September 20, 2016
Straightforward stories of heroism in a variety of eras and cultures. I found this collection more middle-grade than YA in both tone and content, but there's nothing wrong with that. Stand-outs for me were Esther Friesner's "Thunderbolt" (I really should read the associated novels) and Tamora "Pierce's Student of Ostriches" (which I've read before, but no matter).
I do wish the commitment to diversity of characters had perhaps been matched by any attempt at diversity of authors. Oh well.
I do wish the commitment to diversity of characters had perhaps been matched by any attempt at diversity of authors. Oh well.
April 5, 2015
Like most short story anthologies, this was a mixed bag.
Here are some I liked:
Eli and the Dybbuk (cute love story)
Heartless (Holly Black: how could I not love this one?)
Lioness (I loved this character! I wanted more of her)
Thunderbolt (Happy to see this character has her own series: plan to read it)
Devil Wind (great non-western story that offers insight, especially historically)
Boy who Cried Dragon (cute. although they never went to the end of the "boy who cried..." story: people don't stop believing the dragon/boy)
Emerging Legacy (this was what I was hoping for when I started this book. This one, Thunderbolt, and Lioness. She also has a series, that I plan to read.)
Acts of Faith (reminded me a bit of "a Great and Terrible Beauty" but without the angsty boy bits which were so frustrating in that series. I'd read more of these 3 girls if there were anything)
Swords that Talk (adorable. Love the ending. Want to read more from this author)
Maybes:
Gift of Rain Mountain (I appreciated the irony, even if it was a bit annoying to read (like a fable!), it may have been worth it for the ending?)
Magestone (I liked the portrayal of the mermaids, but so much more could have been done with it.
Serpent's Rock (the australian aboriginal cultural references her are interesting, but I found the story to be strange.)
Nos:
Hidden Warriors (I liked the idea of the characters, but the writing felt cold, unapproachable; reminded me of a series I read when I was younger, but can't put my hand on. Maybe ... Umber? Hunder? I'll think of it some day. It's not a series I've thought about in a long time.)
Axe for Men (this was just way too religious for me. I appreciate that many of these stories are religious (of one sect or another), but this for some reason just didn't work)
I was disappointed that the Tamora Pierce story was repeated from another of her anthologies, so I'd already read it! I really love the story, but wish it were a new one!
Edit: "Camber of Culdi"... Those were the books. I was close!
Here are some I liked:
Eli and the Dybbuk (cute love story)
Heartless (Holly Black: how could I not love this one?)
Lioness (I loved this character! I wanted more of her)
Thunderbolt (Happy to see this character has her own series: plan to read it)
Devil Wind (great non-western story that offers insight, especially historically)
Boy who Cried Dragon (cute. although they never went to the end of the "boy who cried..." story: people don't stop believing the dragon/boy)
Emerging Legacy (this was what I was hoping for when I started this book. This one, Thunderbolt, and Lioness. She also has a series, that I plan to read.)
Acts of Faith (reminded me a bit of "a Great and Terrible Beauty" but without the angsty boy bits which were so frustrating in that series. I'd read more of these 3 girls if there were anything)
Swords that Talk (adorable. Love the ending. Want to read more from this author)
Maybes:
Gift of Rain Mountain (I appreciated the irony, even if it was a bit annoying to read (like a fable!), it may have been worth it for the ending?)
Magestone (I liked the portrayal of the mermaids, but so much more could have been done with it.
Serpent's Rock (the australian aboriginal cultural references her are interesting, but I found the story to be strange.)
Nos:
Hidden Warriors (I liked the idea of the characters, but the writing felt cold, unapproachable; reminded me of a series I read when I was younger, but can't put my hand on. Maybe ... Umber? Hunder? I'll think of it some day. It's not a series I've thought about in a long time.)
Axe for Men (this was just way too religious for me. I appreciate that many of these stories are religious (of one sect or another), but this for some reason just didn't work)
I was disappointed that the Tamora Pierce story was repeated from another of her anthologies, so I'd already read it! I really love the story, but wish it were a new one!
Edit: "Camber of Culdi"... Those were the books. I was close!
February 11, 2013
I enjoy reading short story collections every now and then, so when I came across this collection I thought I would give it a go. I thought the question of what makes a warrior was an interesting one and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
Young Warriors has a collection of 15 unique short stories which cover a wide spectrum of ideas. Some fo the stories were in India, some in South America, whilst others were set in fantasy worlds. All 15 stories have something interesting to add to the idea of what a warrior is/does. The warriors in question are a mixture of male and female, from different cultures, and different times.
On the whole I really enjoyed all 15 stories, but none of them really stood out to me. I thought the ideas and the characters were interesting, but not spectacular. Reading Young Warriors was a pleasant way to spend my day. It was nice to read a re-telling of Helen of Troy’s story, and to see the way some of the authors set their story in a non-Western setting. Some of the ideas about what made a warrior were interesting, and I thought the authors explored this idea in a unique fashion on the whole. I also enjoyed that the short stories were framed by two essays – the introduction and conclusion. Pierce’s musings on the different incarnations of a warrior was really interesting.
If you are a fan of one of the authors in this anthology then you may want to consider checking it out. Although there is nothing spectacular about Young Warriors it is a great read.
Originally posted on TheFlutterbyRoom.com
Young Warriors has a collection of 15 unique short stories which cover a wide spectrum of ideas. Some fo the stories were in India, some in South America, whilst others were set in fantasy worlds. All 15 stories have something interesting to add to the idea of what a warrior is/does. The warriors in question are a mixture of male and female, from different cultures, and different times.
On the whole I really enjoyed all 15 stories, but none of them really stood out to me. I thought the ideas and the characters were interesting, but not spectacular. Reading Young Warriors was a pleasant way to spend my day. It was nice to read a re-telling of Helen of Troy’s story, and to see the way some of the authors set their story in a non-Western setting. Some of the ideas about what made a warrior were interesting, and I thought the authors explored this idea in a unique fashion on the whole. I also enjoyed that the short stories were framed by two essays – the introduction and conclusion. Pierce’s musings on the different incarnations of a warrior was really interesting.
If you are a fan of one of the authors in this anthology then you may want to consider checking it out. Although there is nothing spectacular about Young Warriors it is a great read.
Originally posted on TheFlutterbyRoom.com
May 4, 2009
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Anthology
This was a very solid anthology; there was only one story I found disappointing - all the rest of them I liked very much. None of them have made me run out and buy one of the author's novels, although I'm now seriously considering picking up _Nobody's Princess_ by Esther Friesner. Her short story, "Thunderbolt" is about a young Helen of Troy when she was a princess of Sparta. This Helen is the least wimpy and superficial Helen I've ever run across. She's spoiled and willful, but I liked her very much, and found myself wondering why she would come to engineer the Trojan war (for I am very sure this Helen was not a pawn in that game). The novel apparently continues Helen's story.
There is a strong non-European influence to many of the stories; one is set in pre-Colombian Americas, another during the British occupation of India in the 19th century, and a third in an African country during Rome's expansionist period.
This was a very solid anthology; there was only one story I found disappointing - all the rest of them I liked very much. None of them have made me run out and buy one of the author's novels, although I'm now seriously considering picking up _Nobody's Princess_ by Esther Friesner. Her short story, "Thunderbolt" is about a young Helen of Troy when she was a princess of Sparta. This Helen is the least wimpy and superficial Helen I've ever run across. She's spoiled and willful, but I liked her very much, and found myself wondering why she would come to engineer the Trojan war (for I am very sure this Helen was not a pawn in that game). The novel apparently continues Helen's story.
There is a strong non-European influence to many of the stories; one is set in pre-Colombian Americas, another during the British occupation of India in the 19th century, and a third in an African country during Rome's expansionist period.
December 25, 2008
I was so excited for a collection of short stories that revolved around myths from Africa, India, Austrailia, and all over the world. One more story about Middle Earth or a quest through Dark Age Europe and I would crack. And even hough there were original tales from some European legends like Chulchun, I even those were refreshing takes on familiar tales. Also, these are not fairy tales with morals to the stories, these are mini epics. I think all ages can appreciate a tale filled with high stakes and action better than the lesson of the day.
Still, I was bored by most of the stale and forgettable characterizations. There are different authors for each story, so some fair better than others. My favorites were The Gift of Rain Mountain, Eli and the Dybbuk, Heartless, The Boy who Cried "Dragon!", and Swords That Talk
Still, I was bored by most of the stale and forgettable characterizations. There are different authors for each story, so some fair better than others. My favorites were The Gift of Rain Mountain, Eli and the Dybbuk, Heartless, The Boy who Cried "Dragon!", and Swords That Talk
January 18, 2022
Young Warriors is an excellent collection of fifteen original short stories by some of the best authors in the young adult genre. I've read more than a few books by Tamora Pierce who both edited and contributed to this volume. The theme of the book deals with children and teens who have to find their inner warrior. The stories are set in a wide variety of countries, cultures and time periods. No two are alike. The skill and originality displayed by these writers took my breath away. I will be looking for other books written by the authors of Young Warriors.
Some people see forgetfulness as a problem. I see it as an opportunity to re-read a book that I completed almost 7 years ago and enjoy it all over again. Didn't realize that this was a repeat until I registered it on Goodreads. I stand by my earlier review.
Some people see forgetfulness as a problem. I see it as an opportunity to re-read a book that I completed almost 7 years ago and enjoy it all over again. Didn't realize that this was a repeat until I registered it on Goodreads. I stand by my earlier review.
August 22, 2010
Pretty good! Obviously there are some winners and... not winners in any collection of short stories, but this one was more good than bad. There weren't any that were totally unreadable, and only a few that I didn't particularly like. I found several authors I'd never read before whom I definitely want to seek out at the library based on what they wrote for Young Warriors, which is great.
While the intended audience is more teen than youth, I was able to recommend a couple of the stories to my 10 year old when she forgot to bring a book of her own to a waiting room last week, and she enjoyed the one she read (The Boy Who Called 'Dragon').
While the intended audience is more teen than youth, I was able to recommend a couple of the stories to my 10 year old when she forgot to bring a book of her own to a waiting room last week, and she enjoyed the one she read (The Boy Who Called 'Dragon').
October 3, 2010
There were a variety of good and okay stories in this anthology. A couple I really liked because they were haunting and made me think about bigger issues, or they came from a culture of which I was unfamiliar. At least one of them was from a longer work, which I really frown on because you just don't get the depth or clarity when you try to mash together a bunch of stuff that originally takes more time to get. It's like thinking you understand the movie when you watch the preview. Uh, nope.
Otherwise, a good collection with a little something for everyone.
Otherwise, a good collection with a little something for everyone.
March 16, 2011
Some really good stories but also some that weren't so good as always in short story collections.
I didn't enjoy the tribal, native stories so much as the pure fantasy ones.
All in all i don't think fantasy converts and condenses well into short stories as the genre is so sweeping and vast it needs the attention of a full length novel.
Worth collecting though as i am a huge fan of Tamora Pierce and one of her short stories were included though as with some of the other stories it would have been better expanded into a longer story.
Glad i have a copy though for the reason stated.
I didn't enjoy the tribal, native stories so much as the pure fantasy ones.
All in all i don't think fantasy converts and condenses well into short stories as the genre is so sweeping and vast it needs the attention of a full length novel.
Worth collecting though as i am a huge fan of Tamora Pierce and one of her short stories were included though as with some of the other stories it would have been better expanded into a longer story.
Glad i have a copy though for the reason stated.
January 2, 2012
I really loved this book and it makes me really sad that I lent it to someone who never gave it back. I, unfortunately, can't remember many of these stories, but I do remember only not liking a couple of them (which, for me, is unusual in short story anthologies). Some, though, I absolutely adored over others - I remember loving Pierce's piece, at least.
I would read this again (and probably will as soon as I get my hands on my copy) and would recommend it for anyone who likes fantasy, short stories, or strong, young protagonists.
I would read this again (and probably will as soon as I get my hands on my copy) and would recommend it for anyone who likes fantasy, short stories, or strong, young protagonists.
June 4, 2016
Heartless by Holly Black: a darker story than I was expecting, and well done. 3 stars
Lioness by Pamela F. Service: an excellent story that shows a great deal of research. I wrote an essay on the queen who expelled the Romans from Kush, and I recognized a great deal. 5 stars
Student of Ostriches by Tamora Pierce: exactly what I've come to love and expect from Pierce. I love reading about the Shang Warriors! 5 stars
An Axe for Men by Rosemary Edghill: really neat story about a society forced to change and how religion changes with that. 4 stars
Lioness by Pamela F. Service: an excellent story that shows a great deal of research. I wrote an essay on the queen who expelled the Romans from Kush, and I recognized a great deal. 5 stars
Student of Ostriches by Tamora Pierce: exactly what I've come to love and expect from Pierce. I love reading about the Shang Warriors! 5 stars
An Axe for Men by Rosemary Edghill: really neat story about a society forced to change and how religion changes with that. 4 stars
August 1, 2009
A wonderfully inventive collection of empowering short stories. Normally, I'll like a few stories in any given collection, and the rest will fall somewhere along the spectrum between "okay" and "I just wasted my time reading that?!" Young Warriors was full of well-chosen shorts, though, each consistently imaginative and downright fun.
Yes, it's a YA book, but unlike some, it doesn't have a condescending tone or shy away from "troubling" subject matter. Delightful to read!
Yes, it's a YA book, but unlike some, it doesn't have a condescending tone or shy away from "troubling" subject matter. Delightful to read!
May 31, 2009
This book is an anthology of short stories about young warriors. I thought the stories were good and there are a number of authors who are new for me. And most of them wrote stories where I wanted to read more from them!
This is definitely a good book for the pre-teen/teen reading group. And the stories have a mix of boys and girls so I think it would appeal to both!
I read it on a flight home and I was disappointed when the book ended! I want MORE!!!
This is definitely a good book for the pre-teen/teen reading group. And the stories have a mix of boys and girls so I think it would appeal to both!
I read it on a flight home and I was disappointed when the book ended! I want MORE!!!
December 24, 2016
"This book is a collection of short stories focusing on strong characters around the are of the its targeted audience (young adults). The main characters were mainly female as is to be expected of a compilation done by Tamora Pierce. [return][return]Though fiction and often fantastical, the stories are inspiring and motivating glimpses into the world of women who can stand tall on their own. The writing style varies from author to author, but all are well worth the read."
October 1, 2022
This collection of short stories includes one by Tamora Pierce in the Tortall universe. The stories are all about young people, some who choose to fight, others who see the sense in not fighting in certain situations. The introduction is a great essay (by Tamora Pierce) in and of itself. It would be neat to compare several of the stories to see how the warrior was portrayed in each. The authors are mostly science fiction authors, so the settings vary across continents and time periods.
May 5, 2012
Well you can definitely expect many of these writers to show up here again at some point. I won’t go story by story but there were some I liked more than others. You might look at it and expect heroes and heroines who are all beautiful and powerful, but the majority of them are real heroes, ordinary people overcoming extraordinary circumstances. The worlds range from the historical to the fantastic.
July 24, 2012
Books of short stories is not what I usually gravitate to but since I was on my yearly Tamora Pierce kick I tried "Young Warriors". Each story was a complete book in a chapter that left me thinking more about each world they were set in. I was happy to discover new writers who I felt a connection with their writing style. There was maybe one story that I didn't like but that is pretty good percentage for a book filled with stories. Woot for warriors represented in all shapes and sizes!
October 30, 2013
I have mixed feelings about this book--mainly bad ones. Honestly expected to like it quite a bit more than I actually did. There was definitely some objectionable content going on here in the forms of racism and sexism-- and not in the way that's supposed to point out the ludicrousness of it all either. It made me feel disgusted. There were some good moments from some of the other authors, but overall, I was very disappointed with this book.
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June 28, 2013Most of the stories are good, while a few make little-to-no sense. My favorite is the one actually written by Tamora Pierce, because it does delve a little into the life of a Shang warrior and their training (which I wished she'd write about after having read Alanna, Daine and Kel's stories).
The stories tend to focus on young women/men who have to be strong in some form or another - that is physical strength, mental strength, or survival instincts.
The stories tend to focus on young women/men who have to be strong in some form or another - that is physical strength, mental strength, or survival instincts.
October 23, 2014
To start, this was my first Anthology and I must admit, I was very skeptical at first. However, it turned out to be great. Of course, out of the 15 stories, there were some I didn't like. Serpent's Rock and An Axe For Men to name a few, but overall the good outweighed the bad. A lot of the stories were very uplifting and enjoyable in their own senses. Some even managed to be funny at times, which I feel added a lot.
There are certainly some stories I would love to read again.
There are certainly some stories I would love to read again.
August 6, 2017
Mike Resnicks "The Boy Who Cried Dragon" was an awesome find, as he is extremely hilarious, and Lesley Bain's "Acts of Faith" was a perfect historical fiction with a little bit of Celtic magic thrown in. A really interesting span of many cultures, time periods, types of stories and types of magic, though some seemed too simple and some seemed incomplete. I'm gonna pass this on to a young girl who would be inspired by it, as I think I was a little too old for it.
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