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Shadow Skye #1
The Good Hawk
In a mythic Scotland, two unlikely heroes must make a dangerous journey to save their people.
Agatha is a Hawk, brave and fierce, who protects her people by patrolling the high walls of their island home. She is proud of her job, though some in her clan whisper that it is meant to keep her out of the way because of the condition she was born with. Jaime, thoughtful and anxious, is an Angler, but he hates the sea. Worse, he’s been chosen for a duty that the clan hasn’t required for generations: to marry. The elders won’t say why they have promised him to a girl in a neighboring clan, but there are rumors of approaching danger. When disaster strikes and the clan is kidnapped, it is up to Agatha and Jaime to travel across the haunted mainland of Scotia to Norveg, with help along the way from a clan of nomadic Highland bull riders and the many animals who are drawn to Agatha’s extraordinary gift of communication.
Agatha is a Hawk, brave and fierce, who protects her people by patrolling the high walls of their island home. She is proud of her job, though some in her clan whisper that it is meant to keep her out of the way because of the condition she was born with. Jaime, thoughtful and anxious, is an Angler, but he hates the sea. Worse, he’s been chosen for a duty that the clan hasn’t required for generations: to marry. The elders won’t say why they have promised him to a girl in a neighboring clan, but there are rumors of approaching danger. When disaster strikes and the clan is kidnapped, it is up to Agatha and Jaime to travel across the haunted mainland of Scotia to Norveg, with help along the way from a clan of nomadic Highland bull riders and the many animals who are drawn to Agatha’s extraordinary gift of communication.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published January 21, 2020
57 people are currently reading
3185 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Elliott
28 books61 followersJoseph Elliott is a writer, teacher, and actor known for his work in children’s television. The Good Hawk is his first book. He lives in London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
February 14, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
The Good Hawk is a YA historical book set in the days when Clans ruled parts of the world. The book opens with fifteen-year-old Agatha who has Down Syndrome. She lives at the north of the Isle of Skye with her clan, ‘Clann-a-Tuath’ and her role in the clan is that she is a Hawk, they guard the wall to the enclave and watch for anyone coming to attack them.
We then meet fifteen-year-old Jaime who is an Angler, although not a very capable one as he doesn’t like the sea and he gets sick whilst onboard the boats. He wants to be a Wasp, the people who make the boats, but all professions are given to the members and they can not be changed.
The clan lives a quiet life but they decide to try and keep the peace with the clan from the Isle of Raasay after Clann-na-bruthaich is wiped out by the aggressive Deamhain. In trade for them receiving long-range weapons, they agree for Jaime to marry one of the girls from Raasay, against his wishes.
After the wedding, Jaime and his new bride Lileas are to spend their first night out at sea, however, waiting on board is Agatha who wants to help Jaime get away from his new wife. He knows that Agatha will be in trouble if he sends her back to land immediately so he decides to try and sneak her back in the morning and all three bed down for the night. Unfortunately, the Clan-a-Tuath have been double-crossed by the Raasay as they get them drunk and then open the gates to let in the Deamhain.
With all the clan elders murdered and the others taken as slaves, it is up to Agatha, Jaime, and Lileas to work out a plan to get their members back and to make sure they are not captured or killed in the process.
The Good Hawk is a fascinating book. It contains adventure, mystery, magic, and action. I have heard it being referred to as a YA version of Game of Thrones. I haven’t read the books and only watched one episode of the series, so I can’t comment on the likeness, but I think being set in some old world with clans fighting and a few mystical moments thrown in does sound similar to me.
The book is told in dual narrative from Agatha and Jaime. Agatha’s sections did take me a few chapters to get used to as they are written in quite a basic, young way, but once you realise that Agatha has Down Syndrome you start to understand why and embrace it. I’m not normally a fan of dual or multiple narratives but the writing felt so different for each character that I quite enjoyed it.
The story is split into three sections; Skye, Scotia, Norveg and a map at the beginning lets you know where these places are in relation to one another. In Scotia, the people have been killed by a plague and we also get our first proper look at Agatha’s abilities to communicate with animals.
Overall, this was a book I flew threw as I enjoyed it so much. I am just glad that it is the first in a trilogy as I will get to read more about our two amazing characters who are both so different from one another, yet work well together.
The Good Hawk is a YA historical book set in the days when Clans ruled parts of the world. The book opens with fifteen-year-old Agatha who has Down Syndrome. She lives at the north of the Isle of Skye with her clan, ‘Clann-a-Tuath’ and her role in the clan is that she is a Hawk, they guard the wall to the enclave and watch for anyone coming to attack them.
We then meet fifteen-year-old Jaime who is an Angler, although not a very capable one as he doesn’t like the sea and he gets sick whilst onboard the boats. He wants to be a Wasp, the people who make the boats, but all professions are given to the members and they can not be changed.
The clan lives a quiet life but they decide to try and keep the peace with the clan from the Isle of Raasay after Clann-na-bruthaich is wiped out by the aggressive Deamhain. In trade for them receiving long-range weapons, they agree for Jaime to marry one of the girls from Raasay, against his wishes.
After the wedding, Jaime and his new bride Lileas are to spend their first night out at sea, however, waiting on board is Agatha who wants to help Jaime get away from his new wife. He knows that Agatha will be in trouble if he sends her back to land immediately so he decides to try and sneak her back in the morning and all three bed down for the night. Unfortunately, the Clan-a-Tuath have been double-crossed by the Raasay as they get them drunk and then open the gates to let in the Deamhain.
With all the clan elders murdered and the others taken as slaves, it is up to Agatha, Jaime, and Lileas to work out a plan to get their members back and to make sure they are not captured or killed in the process.
The Good Hawk is a fascinating book. It contains adventure, mystery, magic, and action. I have heard it being referred to as a YA version of Game of Thrones. I haven’t read the books and only watched one episode of the series, so I can’t comment on the likeness, but I think being set in some old world with clans fighting and a few mystical moments thrown in does sound similar to me.
The book is told in dual narrative from Agatha and Jaime. Agatha’s sections did take me a few chapters to get used to as they are written in quite a basic, young way, but once you realise that Agatha has Down Syndrome you start to understand why and embrace it. I’m not normally a fan of dual or multiple narratives but the writing felt so different for each character that I quite enjoyed it.
The story is split into three sections; Skye, Scotia, Norveg and a map at the beginning lets you know where these places are in relation to one another. In Scotia, the people have been killed by a plague and we also get our first proper look at Agatha’s abilities to communicate with animals.
Overall, this was a book I flew threw as I enjoyed it so much. I am just glad that it is the first in a trilogy as I will get to read more about our two amazing characters who are both so different from one another, yet work well together.
May 13, 2020
This book has nothing to do with hawks! I feel this is an important disclaimer as I assumed from the cover and title that it was about animals. It's actually a magic-tinged adventure set in a Scotland of the far past, where two children have to travel across the country to save their kidnapped clan. It's brutally dark and scary in places, and it also has a plague plot that feels creepily relevant in 2020 - I thought it was very well written and exciting, and I'm looking forward to the sequel. 11+
*Please note: this review is meant as a recommendation only. Please do not use it in any marketing material, online or in print, without asking permission from me first. Thank you!*
*Please note: this review is meant as a recommendation only. Please do not use it in any marketing material, online or in print, without asking permission from me first. Thank you!*
November 28, 2019
The Good Hawk is an incredibly special and important book and I was so genuinely excited to keep diving back into this fantastical world. Elliott is a master in characterisation and voice; I fell in love with Agatha after just two sentences in her head and then I struggled to put the book down because I just HAD to know what would happen to her and Jaime. Not only is this a heart-warming story about friendship and courage and what it means to truly be a hero, the plot is so gripping and compelling that I could hardly turn the pages fast enough to keep up with it. And when you do turn the page, there are some genuinely shocking twists and turns lying in wait. The Good Hawk feels like something new and bold; a journey that is both thrilling and moving. Be prepared to be totally captivated by this amazing adventure and its unlikely heroes until the very last page . . . and even beyond that.
February 16, 2021
4,5/5
Me ha encantado. Mucho.
Me ha encantado. Mucho.
January 27, 2020
The Good Hawk is set in the Isle of Skye. Agatha is a hawk once made a plan and climb up the wall . The waves went on Agatha's legs and her face , then the waves got bigger and she couldn't hold on anymore and fell. You stupid girl. Lucky one of the Hawks see her and saved her.
Jamie is a reluctant Angler and is afraid of the sea, with all that deep dark water, his mind rattles of all the possibilities that could be lurking beneath the surface like a giant squid, killer rays .
I always love to find out how an author came up with an idea to write their books. Joseph Elliott came up with the idea for the heroine of The Good Hawk as he was inspired by some of the incredible children he taught during the time he worked at Westminster Special Schools, particularly those with Down's syndrome.
This is a splendid story where the author has captured voices in an excellent animal fashion. This story is one clever idea, that sits at top of my list for recommendation.
Jamie is a reluctant Angler and is afraid of the sea, with all that deep dark water, his mind rattles of all the possibilities that could be lurking beneath the surface like a giant squid, killer rays .
I always love to find out how an author came up with an idea to write their books. Joseph Elliott came up with the idea for the heroine of The Good Hawk as he was inspired by some of the incredible children he taught during the time he worked at Westminster Special Schools, particularly those with Down's syndrome.
This is a splendid story where the author has captured voices in an excellent animal fashion. This story is one clever idea, that sits at top of my list for recommendation.
July 8, 2019
This is a genuinely exciting book! I have about twenty pages left to read and I'm trying my best to slow myself down, because it's so good and I don't want it to end! The author described it as "Game of Thrones for kids" at a recent event. I'm one of the few people on the planet who hasn't seen or read Games of Thrones (I know!) so I can't comment on that, but what I do know is that it's filled with a cast of weird and wonderful characters who have the most incredible adventures and that I can't wait for the book to publish early next year.
April 3, 2022
This was one of those impulse library checkouts, and I have zero regrets. The pacing is just right. Elliott keeps the action moving at a strong clip, so there is never a chance to get bogged down in details, while at the same time building an interesting and complex world and characters. I adore that one of the main protagonists is a girl with Down's Syndrome, and the other has paralyzing anxiety attacks. Both of their voices and struggles were clearly conveyed, and Elliot does a really good job of switching between their points of view. I will definitely be reading the rest of the trilogy now!
January 15, 2021
"(...) La trama oculta alguna que otra sorpresa, entre las que se encuentran dones ocultos y secretos personales que arañan por salir a la luz, aunque son solo cosas que prometen ser desarrolladas y tener más peso en entregas posteriores.
Con tan solo el primer volumen en la trilogía, La niña Halcón hila de manera vibrante lo que promete ser una gran historia plagada de aventuras, amistad y peligros."
Reseña completa en THE BEST READ YET BLOG
Con tan solo el primer volumen en la trilogía, La niña Halcón hila de manera vibrante lo que promete ser una gran historia plagada de aventuras, amistad y peligros."
Reseña completa en THE BEST READ YET BLOG
May 26, 2022
I was so incredibly excited when I first heard about The Good Hawk. Not only is it a middle-grade fantasy set in Scotland, but it also features a main character with Down Syndrome. I added it to my disability release masterlist and to my own TBR instantly.
I want to preface this by saying I can’t comment on the representation of Down Syndrome itself—I don’t have any experience with it so I don’t know whether certain situations are representative or not. I did, however, read this through my own experiences with disability. There’s definitely a good deal of ableism in here—Agatha is referred to as stupid, what I assume is the Scottish Gaelic r-word, and a vast range of other not-so-nice language. As awful and uncomfortable that is to read, I believe it is challenged by certain characters—I hope the rest of the series will continue to do so. I do think that when it comes to Agatha herself, Elliot has taken the time to write her in a way that is more than two-dimensional and doesn’t fall into common stereotypes. Again, I can’t comment for anyone in the DS community, these are just my personal opinions.
I did really enjoy reading from both Agatha and Jaime’s perspective. They have very distinct voices, and it was really interesting to see the way they perceived things differently. The world surrounding them is very captivating. Like many people, I think Scotland is a beautiful country and it’s one of my favourite places to read about. I loved seeing this fantastical and historical representation of it—there are parts that are recognisable, which makes the fantasy elements were more engrossing.
I think this is a great first book in a series, and I’m very intrigued to see where it’s going to go from here.
SECOND READING
This was my eighth read for Eurovisionathon and my pick for Norway. This was actually a reread for me and scarily enough, it was almost two years to the day since I read it for the first time—isn’t it creepy when things work out like that? Anyway, this is set in a sort of historical/fantastical world and we follow two characters, Agatha and Jaime. Agatha is meant to have down syndrome, though of course, it’s never labelled as such. I wrote a full review of this last time, but in that, I mentioned that she faces a lot of ableism that is challenged both by her and a number of other characters around her. I found it incredibly painful to read this time, in the sense that it feels so real so I just want to throw out a trigger warning for that. As I said, it’s challenged by the characters but it’s still tough to read. Despite that, I still really enjoyed this. I’d honestly forgotten how creepy this is in places, but I loved rediscovering this world.
I want to preface this by saying I can’t comment on the representation of Down Syndrome itself—I don’t have any experience with it so I don’t know whether certain situations are representative or not. I did, however, read this through my own experiences with disability. There’s definitely a good deal of ableism in here—Agatha is referred to as stupid, what I assume is the Scottish Gaelic r-word, and a vast range of other not-so-nice language. As awful and uncomfortable that is to read, I believe it is challenged by certain characters—I hope the rest of the series will continue to do so. I do think that when it comes to Agatha herself, Elliot has taken the time to write her in a way that is more than two-dimensional and doesn’t fall into common stereotypes. Again, I can’t comment for anyone in the DS community, these are just my personal opinions.
I did really enjoy reading from both Agatha and Jaime’s perspective. They have very distinct voices, and it was really interesting to see the way they perceived things differently. The world surrounding them is very captivating. Like many people, I think Scotland is a beautiful country and it’s one of my favourite places to read about. I loved seeing this fantastical and historical representation of it—there are parts that are recognisable, which makes the fantasy elements were more engrossing.
I think this is a great first book in a series, and I’m very intrigued to see where it’s going to go from here.
SECOND READING
This was my eighth read for Eurovisionathon and my pick for Norway. This was actually a reread for me and scarily enough, it was almost two years to the day since I read it for the first time—isn’t it creepy when things work out like that? Anyway, this is set in a sort of historical/fantastical world and we follow two characters, Agatha and Jaime. Agatha is meant to have down syndrome, though of course, it’s never labelled as such. I wrote a full review of this last time, but in that, I mentioned that she faces a lot of ableism that is challenged both by her and a number of other characters around her. I found it incredibly painful to read this time, in the sense that it feels so real so I just want to throw out a trigger warning for that. As I said, it’s challenged by the characters but it’s still tough to read. Despite that, I still really enjoyed this. I’d honestly forgotten how creepy this is in places, but I loved rediscovering this world.
January 18, 2021
Pues, a rasgos generales, no ha estado mal el libro. La historia ha sido entretenida y el estilo narrativo ayuda a que la lectura sea muy fluida, cargada de acción y de escenas potentes y una lectura muy rápida que se puede leer del tirón. Sin embargo, me quedo en este primer libro con la sensación de que el argumento, o la idea principal con todos su detalles, podrían haber dado mucho más de sí.
Me ha faltado más sentimiento y emoción, ya que el libro me ha dejado algo fría. La ambientación que se muestra tiene mucho potencial y es atrayente, pero le ha faltado un desarrollo más profundo y acertado para que algunos de los momentos o escenarios que se describen en el libro se visualicen y se entiendan bien en todo su contexto. Además, el tema de los personajes también me ha parecido un elemento de la historia flojo. Partiendo de que la protagonista es muy diferente a todas las que hemos tenido ahora, ya que tiene Síndrome de Down, todos ellos se quedan muy superficiales, sin ahondar mucho en sus vidas o personalidades, y haciendo que ninguno de ellos te digan gran cosa.
Me quedo, eso sí, con esos pequeños giros que tenemos a su alrededor y, especialmente, con un momento final que deja muchas preguntas que quiero resolver, y las cuales me han dejado con ganas de seguir andando con Agatha, Jaime y por este mundo en un futuro.
Me ha faltado más sentimiento y emoción, ya que el libro me ha dejado algo fría. La ambientación que se muestra tiene mucho potencial y es atrayente, pero le ha faltado un desarrollo más profundo y acertado para que algunos de los momentos o escenarios que se describen en el libro se visualicen y se entiendan bien en todo su contexto. Además, el tema de los personajes también me ha parecido un elemento de la historia flojo. Partiendo de que la protagonista es muy diferente a todas las que hemos tenido ahora, ya que tiene Síndrome de Down, todos ellos se quedan muy superficiales, sin ahondar mucho en sus vidas o personalidades, y haciendo que ninguno de ellos te digan gran cosa.
Me quedo, eso sí, con esos pequeños giros que tenemos a su alrededor y, especialmente, con un momento final que deja muchas preguntas que quiero resolver, y las cuales me han dejado con ganas de seguir andando con Agatha, Jaime y por este mundo en un futuro.
March 10, 2022
This felt extremely bad. One of the two main characters, according to the author's site, has Down Syndrome, and I have never seen a more infantilized internal monologue than her sections. The story was about how great and special she is because of her magic powers but like - none of it sat right and I do not feel good about it.
Next day edit: Thought about it more. Here's what feels bad:
1. Main character with developmental disability is infantilized, only valued for special magic powers and not for, you know, all the cool shit she does extremely competently.
2.
3. Male main character has a gay panic and never fucking apologizes, is simply forgiven for no damn reason when he makes the barest attempt at "oh I still think you're a person I guess."
4. Child marriage is gross.
5. Of the main players, five of seven are female - two are infantilized horribly, one barely exists, and it just sits badly.
6. Book tries to pretend the disabled girl is the protagonist but the plot is driven by the boy Disabled girl becomes feel-good poster child and everyone's prejudices suddenly disappear.
7. Slurs.
Next day edit: Thought about it more. Here's what feels bad:
1. Main character with developmental disability is infantilized, only valued for special magic powers and not for, you know, all the cool shit she does extremely competently.
2.
3. Male main character has a gay panic and never fucking apologizes, is simply forgiven for no damn reason when he makes the barest attempt at "oh I still think you're a person I guess."
4. Child marriage is gross.
5. Of the main players, five of seven are female - two are infantilized horribly, one barely exists, and it just sits badly.
6. Book tries to pretend the disabled girl is the protagonist but the plot is driven by the boy Disabled girl becomes feel-good poster child and everyone's prejudices suddenly disappear.
7. Slurs.
December 9, 2019
What a unique and brilliant book this is! Each character's voice was so beautifully written, none more so than Agatha (a soon to be iconic character in my opinion).
The story is set on the isle of Skye in a mythic era where clans live and battle, we follow Agatha a "Hawk" whose job it is to walk the walls that surround the home of her clan. We also follow Jaime a reluctant Angler and even more reluctant groom! Jaime and Agatha are thrust into action as their clan are brutally attacked.
This book is original, heartwarming, funny, full of action and intrigue, and perfectly paced. I can't recommend it highly enough.
The story is set on the isle of Skye in a mythic era where clans live and battle, we follow Agatha a "Hawk" whose job it is to walk the walls that surround the home of her clan. We also follow Jaime a reluctant Angler and even more reluctant groom! Jaime and Agatha are thrust into action as their clan are brutally attacked.
This book is original, heartwarming, funny, full of action and intrigue, and perfectly paced. I can't recommend it highly enough.
February 4, 2021
The Good Hawk is a fantastical medieval children's book set on the Isle of Skye and Scotland, following two children as they take on a dangerous journey to save their clan. It's dark at times--there is death and battle--but also lots of brightness and friendship.
What I loved most is that a lead characters, Agatha, has Down's Syndrome. It's never explicitly stated, of course, as this is a fantasy tinged with history (an author's note makes the influence clear), but you know from the first paragraph that she thinks differently than everyone else and she knows she's different, too. She's resilient, smart, and as the title says, a "Good Hawk." She's devoted to her people, even if they aren't truly sure what to make of her. The other child is a boy, Jaime, who is kind and smart. When their clan is attacked and enslaved by raiders, the two follow in pursuit, braving dangers and making diverse friends along the way.
It's a fun book and a great start to a new series. As much as I enjoy the whole cast, I'm fully there for Agatha.
What I loved most is that a lead characters, Agatha, has Down's Syndrome. It's never explicitly stated, of course, as this is a fantasy tinged with history (an author's note makes the influence clear), but you know from the first paragraph that she thinks differently than everyone else and she knows she's different, too. She's resilient, smart, and as the title says, a "Good Hawk." She's devoted to her people, even if they aren't truly sure what to make of her. The other child is a boy, Jaime, who is kind and smart. When their clan is attacked and enslaved by raiders, the two follow in pursuit, braving dangers and making diverse friends along the way.
It's a fun book and a great start to a new series. As much as I enjoy the whole cast, I'm fully there for Agatha.
May 11, 2020
Buongiorno lettori,
Oggi vi parlo di “La ragazza falco” di Joseph Elliot, uscito questo mese grazie a Mondadori.
Un romanzo fantasy Young Adult che mi aveva intrigata dalla trama e dalla sua bella copertina.
“La ragazza falco” ci racconta le avventura di due ragazzi che cercano di salvare il proprio clan.
Un’avventura ambientata nei suggestivi paesaggi della Scozia, precisamente nell’isola di Skye, dove ognuno nel villaggio ha un ruolo fondamentale. Agatha è un giovane falco, il suo compito è di fare da vedetta per prevenire possibili attacchi nemici.
Lei è una ragazza molto speciale, diversa dagli altri e questo la fa sentire sola ma felice delle poche e care persone che le vogliono bene. A renderla ancora più speciale è il suo dono, quello di poter parlare con gli animali.
Poi c’è Jaime, una manta, ovvero un pescatore, un ruolo che però a lui sta stretto perché diversamente dai suoi compagni ha paura del mare.
Gli anziani del villaggio però gli hanno dato un altro incarico, ovvero di solidificare un’alleanza con un clan vicino tramite un matrimonio.
Il giorno delle nozze, però, qualcosa andrà storto e Agatha e Jaime si ritroveranno ad intraprendere un viaggio per salvare il clan, incontrando persone che li aiuteranno e visitando paesaggi suggestivi. Riusciranno questi giovani ragazzi nella loro missione?
“Un’improvvisa brezza ci sferza dal mare, come per incitarci a muovere i primi passi su quella terra arcana. «Andiamo», dico. E cominciamo a camminare lungo la spiaggia in silenzio, verso l’ignoto.”
“La ragazza falco” è un romanzo per ragazzi ambientato nel passato, dove magia, amicizia e avventura accompagnano il lettore per tutta la durata della lettura.
Un altro elemento che caratterizza questo romanzo è la diversità, di come viene e verrà affrontata. Agatha è una protagonista diversa dal solito, lei non è come tutti, è speciale. Non solo perché ha il dono di poter comunicare con gli animali ma anche perché ha la sindrome di Down.
Questo non fermerà la giovane e intrepida protagonista, che seppure non viene trattata bene da tutti gli abitanti del clan, non si tirerà indietro e andrà a salvare.
“È il mio incarico ed è importante e devo proteggere il mio clan.”
Affronterà un viaggio pieno di sfide partendo dall’isola Skye per arrivare in Norvegia.
Ad accompagnarla in questo viaggio ci saranno Jaime e Lileas.
Altro elemento interessante di questo romanzo è come è strutturato il villaggio di Agatha e Jaime.
Ognuno fa parte di un gruppo che deve occuparsi di un compito preciso. Ci sono i falchi, ovvero le vedette; le mante, che sono i pescatori; le vespe i costruttori di barche, e molti altri.
Il clan è guidato dagli anziani, che si occupano di gestirlo e di scegliere per ogni abitante il proprio ruolo.
Devo dire che nonostante sia una lettura per ragazzi, “La ragazza falco” mi è piaciuta molto.
Lo stile di scrittura di questo autore è scorrevole e avvincente, l’ambientazione (soprattutto nel mio caso) aiuta moltissimo, in quanto adoro quei paesaggi incontaminati.
Il tutto è narrato sotto i punti di vista dei due giovani protagonisti; la parte di Agatha è più semplice, in quanto l’autore ha cercato di farci vedere le vicende e il mondo tramite gli occhi di una ragazza speciale.
Sono curiosa di leggere il prossimo romanzo di questa trilogia!
Spero di avervi incuriositi e che vi imbarcherete anche voi in questa avventura!
Infine ringrazio la Mondadori per avermi dato l’opportunità di conoscere la dolce Agatha.
A presto.
Oggi vi parlo di “La ragazza falco” di Joseph Elliot, uscito questo mese grazie a Mondadori.
Un romanzo fantasy Young Adult che mi aveva intrigata dalla trama e dalla sua bella copertina.
“La ragazza falco” ci racconta le avventura di due ragazzi che cercano di salvare il proprio clan.
Un’avventura ambientata nei suggestivi paesaggi della Scozia, precisamente nell’isola di Skye, dove ognuno nel villaggio ha un ruolo fondamentale. Agatha è un giovane falco, il suo compito è di fare da vedetta per prevenire possibili attacchi nemici.
Lei è una ragazza molto speciale, diversa dagli altri e questo la fa sentire sola ma felice delle poche e care persone che le vogliono bene. A renderla ancora più speciale è il suo dono, quello di poter parlare con gli animali.
Poi c’è Jaime, una manta, ovvero un pescatore, un ruolo che però a lui sta stretto perché diversamente dai suoi compagni ha paura del mare.
Gli anziani del villaggio però gli hanno dato un altro incarico, ovvero di solidificare un’alleanza con un clan vicino tramite un matrimonio.
Il giorno delle nozze, però, qualcosa andrà storto e Agatha e Jaime si ritroveranno ad intraprendere un viaggio per salvare il clan, incontrando persone che li aiuteranno e visitando paesaggi suggestivi. Riusciranno questi giovani ragazzi nella loro missione?
“Un’improvvisa brezza ci sferza dal mare, come per incitarci a muovere i primi passi su quella terra arcana. «Andiamo», dico. E cominciamo a camminare lungo la spiaggia in silenzio, verso l’ignoto.”
“La ragazza falco” è un romanzo per ragazzi ambientato nel passato, dove magia, amicizia e avventura accompagnano il lettore per tutta la durata della lettura.
Un altro elemento che caratterizza questo romanzo è la diversità, di come viene e verrà affrontata. Agatha è una protagonista diversa dal solito, lei non è come tutti, è speciale. Non solo perché ha il dono di poter comunicare con gli animali ma anche perché ha la sindrome di Down.
Questo non fermerà la giovane e intrepida protagonista, che seppure non viene trattata bene da tutti gli abitanti del clan, non si tirerà indietro e andrà a salvare.
“È il mio incarico ed è importante e devo proteggere il mio clan.”
Affronterà un viaggio pieno di sfide partendo dall’isola Skye per arrivare in Norvegia.
Ad accompagnarla in questo viaggio ci saranno Jaime e Lileas.
Altro elemento interessante di questo romanzo è come è strutturato il villaggio di Agatha e Jaime.
Ognuno fa parte di un gruppo che deve occuparsi di un compito preciso. Ci sono i falchi, ovvero le vedette; le mante, che sono i pescatori; le vespe i costruttori di barche, e molti altri.
Il clan è guidato dagli anziani, che si occupano di gestirlo e di scegliere per ogni abitante il proprio ruolo.
Devo dire che nonostante sia una lettura per ragazzi, “La ragazza falco” mi è piaciuta molto.
Lo stile di scrittura di questo autore è scorrevole e avvincente, l’ambientazione (soprattutto nel mio caso) aiuta moltissimo, in quanto adoro quei paesaggi incontaminati.
Il tutto è narrato sotto i punti di vista dei due giovani protagonisti; la parte di Agatha è più semplice, in quanto l’autore ha cercato di farci vedere le vicende e il mondo tramite gli occhi di una ragazza speciale.
Sono curiosa di leggere il prossimo romanzo di questa trilogia!
Spero di avervi incuriositi e che vi imbarcherete anche voi in questa avventura!
Infine ringrazio la Mondadori per avermi dato l’opportunità di conoscere la dolce Agatha.
A presto.
February 15, 2020
Agatha is a good hawk! In mythical Scotland, a hawk is like a sentinel. They watch for intruders. Agatha is 15 years old with Downs Syndrome and has a special talent. She can communicate with animals, and they with her. When the Norsemen invade her village and take her clan as slaves, Agatha and Jayme (an angler forced to marry outside of his clan) are the only two to escape death or abduction. They set across the mainland to Norway in an attempt to rescue them. Along the way, their friendship forges a strong bond and they endure many difficulties.
This is such an amazing book with a protagonist and supporting characters that I could not help but fall in love with. I'm thrilled that their journey is not over and that there will be future books.
I loved the audiobook. Listening to the Scottish accents was such a treat.
This is such an amazing book with a protagonist and supporting characters that I could not help but fall in love with. I'm thrilled that their journey is not over and that there will be future books.
I loved the audiobook. Listening to the Scottish accents was such a treat.
August 22, 2022
3,5
A primera vista estaba segura de que esta historia era un middle grade y tremenda sorpresa me llevé cuando empecé a leer y vi que no, claramente no lo era. Esta es una novela de aventura donde Agatha y Jaime tendrán que emprender un viaje para rescatar a su clan que han sido llevados como esclavos. Esta historia está situada en los inicios de las tierras Escocesas y Noruegas y quizás eso es un indicador de algunos de los diálogos que se encuentran (porque claramente no se harían si fuesen en otro contexto), y lo mismo con las escenas bastante sangrientas.
El mundo en el que se desarrolla me gustó mucho, aunque siento que podrían haberlo explotado un poco más lo que nos cuentan del viaje y sus alrededores es suficiente para crear una gran imagen en nuestra mente mientras vamos siguiendo los pasos de los protagonistas. Además que la historia esté contada en dos puntos de vista la hace super dinámica y vamos viendo que piensa y siente cada personaje y como va creciendo su amistad a medida que avanza la historia.
Los personajes me han parecido increíbles, Agatha tiene síndrome de down en un mundo donde nadie sabe que es y no creen que ella sirva para nada, pero obviamente va a demostrarles a todos que están equivocados. Creo que el conocimiento del autor al trabajar con chicos con ese síndrome se ve super reflejado en la historia y hace de ella una protagonista única con la que es imposible no encariñarse. Dicho esto, también me generó una pequeña incomodidad y es que el autor le dio una especie de poder mágico… y no tendría nada de malo salvo que parece que todo lo bueno que consigue es gracias a ese poder y no a que en realidad es una persona super valiente que hace cualquier cosa por los que quiere. Si soy totalmente honesta me hubiese gustado que sea ella quien mueva la historia hacia adelante cuando en realidad es Jaime quien lo hace. Su personaje también está muy bien planteado pero no es super distinto al de Agatha en el sentido de que, sacando ciertas particularidades, si no dijera quien narra cada capítulo esto no estaría del todo claro.
Este libro es parte de una trilogía y siento que si el autor lo hubiese cortado un par de capítulos antes ya hubiese salido a buscar el segundo, pero este tiene un cierre que, (a pesar de una intriga al final) podría llegar a leerse como una historia independiente.
Lo último que voy a decir de este libro es que si lo leen prepárense para un poco de sangre (mucha) y para que se les estruje un poco (mucho) el corazón cuando vean como algunos personajes tratan a Agatha porque a mi realmente me pasó, algunas frases me daban ganas de llorar, pero me paro en la época medieval en que sucede y entiendo que hubiesen sido moneda corriente.
A primera vista estaba segura de que esta historia era un middle grade y tremenda sorpresa me llevé cuando empecé a leer y vi que no, claramente no lo era. Esta es una novela de aventura donde Agatha y Jaime tendrán que emprender un viaje para rescatar a su clan que han sido llevados como esclavos. Esta historia está situada en los inicios de las tierras Escocesas y Noruegas y quizás eso es un indicador de algunos de los diálogos que se encuentran (porque claramente no se harían si fuesen en otro contexto), y lo mismo con las escenas bastante sangrientas.
El mundo en el que se desarrolla me gustó mucho, aunque siento que podrían haberlo explotado un poco más lo que nos cuentan del viaje y sus alrededores es suficiente para crear una gran imagen en nuestra mente mientras vamos siguiendo los pasos de los protagonistas. Además que la historia esté contada en dos puntos de vista la hace super dinámica y vamos viendo que piensa y siente cada personaje y como va creciendo su amistad a medida que avanza la historia.
Los personajes me han parecido increíbles, Agatha tiene síndrome de down en un mundo donde nadie sabe que es y no creen que ella sirva para nada, pero obviamente va a demostrarles a todos que están equivocados. Creo que el conocimiento del autor al trabajar con chicos con ese síndrome se ve super reflejado en la historia y hace de ella una protagonista única con la que es imposible no encariñarse. Dicho esto, también me generó una pequeña incomodidad y es que el autor le dio una especie de poder mágico… y no tendría nada de malo salvo que parece que todo lo bueno que consigue es gracias a ese poder y no a que en realidad es una persona super valiente que hace cualquier cosa por los que quiere. Si soy totalmente honesta me hubiese gustado que sea ella quien mueva la historia hacia adelante cuando en realidad es Jaime quien lo hace. Su personaje también está muy bien planteado pero no es super distinto al de Agatha en el sentido de que, sacando ciertas particularidades, si no dijera quien narra cada capítulo esto no estaría del todo claro.
Este libro es parte de una trilogía y siento que si el autor lo hubiese cortado un par de capítulos antes ya hubiese salido a buscar el segundo, pero este tiene un cierre que, (a pesar de una intriga al final) podría llegar a leerse como una historia independiente.
Lo último que voy a decir de este libro es que si lo leen prepárense para un poco de sangre (mucha) y para que se les estruje un poco (mucho) el corazón cuando vean como algunos personajes tratan a Agatha porque a mi realmente me pasó, algunas frases me daban ganas de llorar, pero me paro en la época medieval en que sucede y entiendo que hubiesen sido moneda corriente.
December 21, 2019
So, to put it in simple terms, THE GOOD HAWK is a book that will make you feel things.
(Thank you, you say. That is not helpful.)
It follows the story of Jaime, an anxious boy with a heavy role to play in his clan, and Agatha, a girl with Down Syndrome and an extraordinary gift that enables her to communicate with animals. When their clan is betrayed and captured by enemy forces, they set out together on a rescue mission. But this mission takes them to mainland Scotia, where the people have been all but annihilated by a plague, and limb-ripping shadows haunt the ruins of the land.
I'm not *entirely* certain how I'd classify this book, age-wise. The characters are young teenagers, so I'd say YA, but the plot/writing feels more on par with upper MG, and that's how it's shelved on Netgalley, but ... I don't know, it's one of those books that laughs in the face of your categorical binaries. And I kinda loved that about it. However, I should mention that there are some genuinely gruesome & scary moments in this book (*ahem* limb-ripping shadows) so I'd caution readers at the younger end of the MG spectrum to be aware of this.
Personally, I LOVED this sinister atmosphere. I loved how Elliott didn't shy away from darkness. I keep thinking about Queen Nathara's castle, empty and haunted on the edge of the water, and I still get shivers. It's a great setup for future books, too, since it's obvious Jaime & Agatha haven't even begun to understand the extent of the darkness lurking in Scotia and Ingland. But intertwined with this heaviness was a genuine joy, with some great moment of humour and characters who are impossible not to root for. Agatha has my entire heart. Jaime's chapters felt a little weaker, a little more 'meh' on the enjoyment scale, but I was equally invested in his growth throughout the book. Elliott has a wonderfully fluid writing style, not too flashy, but able to perfectly capture the different voices of Jaime, Agatha, and Nathara.
I would like to have seen a little more deviation from the typical Us vs Them conflict. The deamhains were all bad, the Scotians were essentially all good, and that whole 'evil foreigner' trope is just a bit too tired for me. And, to be honest, it was the less interesting subplot when compared to Agatha's abilities, and the dark-magic rivalry of the Scotian and Inglish kings, and the concept of a land laid bare by plague. I'm hoping that's where the next books will focus.
But, overall, an outstanding debut. A touch of fantasy, a dash of historical, with A PROTAGONIST WHO ISN'T NEUROTYPICAL! Yay! Perfect for 13-15yo readers who don't mind a little menace, and definitely one I can see becoming a classic. 4/5,
(Thank you, you say. That is not helpful.)
It follows the story of Jaime, an anxious boy with a heavy role to play in his clan, and Agatha, a girl with Down Syndrome and an extraordinary gift that enables her to communicate with animals. When their clan is betrayed and captured by enemy forces, they set out together on a rescue mission. But this mission takes them to mainland Scotia, where the people have been all but annihilated by a plague, and limb-ripping shadows haunt the ruins of the land.
I'm not *entirely* certain how I'd classify this book, age-wise. The characters are young teenagers, so I'd say YA, but the plot/writing feels more on par with upper MG, and that's how it's shelved on Netgalley, but ... I don't know, it's one of those books that laughs in the face of your categorical binaries. And I kinda loved that about it. However, I should mention that there are some genuinely gruesome & scary moments in this book (*ahem* limb-ripping shadows) so I'd caution readers at the younger end of the MG spectrum to be aware of this.
Personally, I LOVED this sinister atmosphere. I loved how Elliott didn't shy away from darkness. I keep thinking about Queen Nathara's castle, empty and haunted on the edge of the water, and I still get shivers. It's a great setup for future books, too, since it's obvious Jaime & Agatha haven't even begun to understand the extent of the darkness lurking in Scotia and Ingland. But intertwined with this heaviness was a genuine joy, with some great moment of humour and characters who are impossible not to root for. Agatha has my entire heart. Jaime's chapters felt a little weaker, a little more 'meh' on the enjoyment scale, but I was equally invested in his growth throughout the book. Elliott has a wonderfully fluid writing style, not too flashy, but able to perfectly capture the different voices of Jaime, Agatha, and Nathara.
I would like to have seen a little more deviation from the typical Us vs Them conflict. The deamhains were all bad, the Scotians were essentially all good, and that whole 'evil foreigner' trope is just a bit too tired for me. And, to be honest, it was the less interesting subplot when compared to Agatha's abilities, and the dark-magic rivalry of the Scotian and Inglish kings, and the concept of a land laid bare by plague. I'm hoping that's where the next books will focus.
But, overall, an outstanding debut. A touch of fantasy, a dash of historical, with A PROTAGONIST WHO ISN'T NEUROTYPICAL! Yay! Perfect for 13-15yo readers who don't mind a little menace, and definitely one I can see becoming a classic. 4/5,
July 25, 2020
Reading Rush challenge 1 finished!
Honestly, I don’t really know how I feel about this book, so I’m going with 2.5 stars.
I really like that it’s a book with representation of Down Syndrome. And I do understand that it’s not mentioned in the book, as it’s likely the clan doesn’t know the name for it. I just didn’t like that it’s something you have to assume from the way Agatha is described? I knew before I read this book that there was a character with Down Syndrome, so then it makes sense who it is. But if I hadn’t known that, I might not have come to the conclusion. I don’t know a lot about it, so the way someone talks and thinks doesn’t necessarily ring a bell for me like ‘oh that must be Down Syndrome’. That is just my uneducated opinion though, and I fully respect everyone else’s opinion! And don’t get me wrong, I really do like that it’s Down Syndrome representation and there should be more books doing that!
On another note, I don’t know if the representation is accurate. Like I said, I don’t know a lot about it, so I don’t know if the way Agatha is written is accurate. If it is, then great!
And on a final note, the story was okay, but it wasn’t fantastic in my eyes. I’m guessing it’s written towards a younger audience, which can very well be why it didn’t resonate with me as much.
Honestly, I don’t really know how I feel about this book, so I’m going with 2.5 stars.
I really like that it’s a book with representation of Down Syndrome. And I do understand that it’s not mentioned in the book, as it’s likely the clan doesn’t know the name for it. I just didn’t like that it’s something you have to assume from the way Agatha is described? I knew before I read this book that there was a character with Down Syndrome, so then it makes sense who it is. But if I hadn’t known that, I might not have come to the conclusion. I don’t know a lot about it, so the way someone talks and thinks doesn’t necessarily ring a bell for me like ‘oh that must be Down Syndrome’. That is just my uneducated opinion though, and I fully respect everyone else’s opinion! And don’t get me wrong, I really do like that it’s Down Syndrome representation and there should be more books doing that!
On another note, I don’t know if the representation is accurate. Like I said, I don’t know a lot about it, so I don’t know if the way Agatha is written is accurate. If it is, then great!
And on a final note, the story was okay, but it wasn’t fantastic in my eyes. I’m guessing it’s written towards a younger audience, which can very well be why it didn’t resonate with me as much.
January 13, 2020
ARC provided by Candlewick Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Good Hawk by Joseph Elliot is the compelling start to a trilogy set in a mythic Scotland.
It revolves around two members of the Clann a Tuath, set on the island of Skye. Agatha is a Hawk, a sentinel, considered incapable because of her birth condition, and Jaime is an Angler, an anxious teen who isn’t fond of the sea, chosen by the clan’s elders for a long-unneeded ritual. Unexpectedly, the clan is kidnapped by the barbaric deamhain and Jaime and Agatha set up on a tortuous journey to save them.
I’m really looking forward to knowing how this incredible story will continue. I was fascinated by the pace, which kept me biting my nails, and the nuanced characters the author created. I loved every second of it.
The Good Hawk by Joseph Elliot is the compelling start to a trilogy set in a mythic Scotland.
It revolves around two members of the Clann a Tuath, set on the island of Skye. Agatha is a Hawk, a sentinel, considered incapable because of her birth condition, and Jaime is an Angler, an anxious teen who isn’t fond of the sea, chosen by the clan’s elders for a long-unneeded ritual. Unexpectedly, the clan is kidnapped by the barbaric deamhain and Jaime and Agatha set up on a tortuous journey to save them.
I’m really looking forward to knowing how this incredible story will continue. I was fascinated by the pace, which kept me biting my nails, and the nuanced characters the author created. I loved every second of it.
July 28, 2024
Siento que es un libro juvenil con toques muy oscuros y problemas reales (en ese mundo mágico, pues jajaja) que se complementan de muy buena manera.
Siendo sincero, no aguanté a Ágatha ya hasta el final del libro; sin embargo Jaime es un personaje con el que uno se puede identificar más fácil.
Es entretenido, se lee muy rápido y tiene algo que te atrapa con unas cuantas páginas, aparte que está situado en Escocia y todo el mundo donde viven rebosa de magia o criaturas mágicas (no siendo eso algo muy bueno en ocasiones). No tiene nada que ver con Halcones reales, solo es un título dentro de la tribu.
Me gustó la historia y quedé con ganas de leer aún más.
Siendo sincero, no aguanté a Ágatha ya hasta el final del libro; sin embargo Jaime es un personaje con el que uno se puede identificar más fácil.
Es entretenido, se lee muy rápido y tiene algo que te atrapa con unas cuantas páginas, aparte que está situado en Escocia y todo el mundo donde viven rebosa de magia o criaturas mágicas (no siendo eso algo muy bueno en ocasiones). No tiene nada que ver con Halcones reales, solo es un título dentro de la tribu.
Me gustó la historia y quedé con ganas de leer aún más.
October 19, 2021
Me tardé prácticamente tres meses leyendo este librito, y vaya, no es que no me gustara pero siento que no me engancho por completo. Me agrada la idea en general y los personajes, es una literatura middle grade bastante entretenida pero había algunos puntos que me brincaban mucho y a veces pensaba que no tenían sentido 😅 pero seguramente estaré subiendo la reseña pronto ya sea en Instagram o en YouTube ☺️
February 1, 2020
THE GOOD HAWK PLUS LINKS
What a rare gem is THE GOOD HAWK. The two protagonists are unlikely heroes. They know they have face their fears and use any and all gifts they may have to survive in this unique work of Dystopian Fiction.
Agatha has Down Syndrome (in the book there is no official diagnosis, but it is obvious to informed readers.) When was the last time you read a book, or even a short story, where the protagonist is a person with a "DisABILITY?"
Kudos to Author Joseph Elliott for challenging stereotypes and showcasing the fact that people are just people, and that everyone is different and every individual has a variety of things to offer the world.
This book is set in a world that is vaguely medieval and definitely dystopian. Agatha lives with her tribe in an enclave on an island reminiscent of those off the coast of Scotland. Even though Agatha has been assigned to be a "Hawk", which is an important position in the tribal hierarchy, there are still many people who treat her with contempt and loathing because she is not like everyone else. The author does a terrific job depicting the discrimination Agatha faces on a daily basis.
Jamie is a young man who has recently been told that his permanent profession is to be an Angler. To say he is disappointed is an understatement. He does not like boats and has no interest in catching fish, but he has no choice. He will do what the Elders tell him, just like every other tribe member.
To add insult to injury, Jamie has also been told that he is to be married to a member of another tribe. He is horrified. No one in the tribe is married. They believe marriage is an archaic and unnecessary institution.
When their tribe is threatened, it is up to Agatha and Jamie to save them, but they are only two people, and young people at that. The task in front of them is momentous, it is daunting, and it would be much easier to just give up.
So, what do they do? How do they even begin? You will need to read the book to find out.
The action is unrelenting, and the surprises are many. Agatha turns out to be special in many ways, and Jamie will confront not only physical dangers, he will also meet other people and other tribes and ultimately come to realize that many of the ideas and attitudes he has been taught since childhood are discriminatory. He will have to decide what he believes deep in his heart.
I read this book over a two day period and enjoyed every minute of it. This story will touch readers and will hopefully open their eyes to the fact that just because someone is "different" does not mean they are 'lesser than.'
Yes, there are quite a few lessons to be learned from reading this book, but it is also a fantastic story that grabs the reader's attention from the very first chapter. The characters are brilliantly depicted and the world is one which our world could easily become.
I am excited that the second book in the series is already being written and I will be eagerly awaiting it's publication.
To read the full review and to learn more about the author, visit my blog at
http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Instagram to win autographed books and more.
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
What a rare gem is THE GOOD HAWK. The two protagonists are unlikely heroes. They know they have face their fears and use any and all gifts they may have to survive in this unique work of Dystopian Fiction.
Agatha has Down Syndrome (in the book there is no official diagnosis, but it is obvious to informed readers.) When was the last time you read a book, or even a short story, where the protagonist is a person with a "DisABILITY?"
Kudos to Author Joseph Elliott for challenging stereotypes and showcasing the fact that people are just people, and that everyone is different and every individual has a variety of things to offer the world.
This book is set in a world that is vaguely medieval and definitely dystopian. Agatha lives with her tribe in an enclave on an island reminiscent of those off the coast of Scotland. Even though Agatha has been assigned to be a "Hawk", which is an important position in the tribal hierarchy, there are still many people who treat her with contempt and loathing because she is not like everyone else. The author does a terrific job depicting the discrimination Agatha faces on a daily basis.
Jamie is a young man who has recently been told that his permanent profession is to be an Angler. To say he is disappointed is an understatement. He does not like boats and has no interest in catching fish, but he has no choice. He will do what the Elders tell him, just like every other tribe member.
To add insult to injury, Jamie has also been told that he is to be married to a member of another tribe. He is horrified. No one in the tribe is married. They believe marriage is an archaic and unnecessary institution.
When their tribe is threatened, it is up to Agatha and Jamie to save them, but they are only two people, and young people at that. The task in front of them is momentous, it is daunting, and it would be much easier to just give up.
So, what do they do? How do they even begin? You will need to read the book to find out.
The action is unrelenting, and the surprises are many. Agatha turns out to be special in many ways, and Jamie will confront not only physical dangers, he will also meet other people and other tribes and ultimately come to realize that many of the ideas and attitudes he has been taught since childhood are discriminatory. He will have to decide what he believes deep in his heart.
I read this book over a two day period and enjoyed every minute of it. This story will touch readers and will hopefully open their eyes to the fact that just because someone is "different" does not mean they are 'lesser than.'
Yes, there are quite a few lessons to be learned from reading this book, but it is also a fantastic story that grabs the reader's attention from the very first chapter. The characters are brilliantly depicted and the world is one which our world could easily become.
I am excited that the second book in the series is already being written and I will be eagerly awaiting it's publication.
To read the full review and to learn more about the author, visit my blog at
http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Instagram to win autographed books and more.
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
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June 30, 2021
Un fantasy medievale ambientato in un’antica isola chiamata Skye in cui un clan vive con rigide regole per difendersi dai nemici dei vicini regni di Ingland, Scotia e Norweg popolati da creature misteriose e tribù sanguinarie. In questo contesto si muovono Jamie e Agatha, i due soli sopravvissuti all’attacco dei nemici che un giorno invadono Skye e fanno prigionieri tutti i loro cari. Inizia così un viaggio tra lande desolate e appestate per cercare di salvarli.
Le premesse per un buon romanzo c’erano ma si sono fermate ai primi capitoli. Infatti, c’è un po’ troppo di tutto in questo romanzo e tutto un po’ stereotipato: Agatha, la protagonista, è affetta da un ritardo mentale per cui tutti la deridono ma l’autore la dipinge come un’eroina coraggiosa, benché nei capitoli in cui è lei a narrare, Elliott scelga volutamente frasi sgrammaticate e parole balbettate; Clay, un personaggio secondario che aiuta i due, è omosessuale, con tutto ciò che implica il trattare questa tematica in un romanzo YA ; i cattivi sono veramente cattivi e soprattutto brutti, con i loro corpi coperti di tatuaggi... Altro elemento che non ho particolarmente apprezzato è il fatto che l’autore abbia scelto di alternare le voci narranti di Jamie e Agatha ma in realtà spesso questa differenza non si avverte. C’è poi la trama, che prova a stupire con effetti speciali ma senza riuscirci. Insomma, si legge velocemente, ha qualche aspetto interessante (come l’utilizzo di una lingua di derivazione gaelica per identificare determinati oggetti e usanze dei differenti clan) ma non credo sia un libro indimenticabile...
March 8, 2020
I received a copy in the Jan 2020 Book Box Club box (paid for myself)
What I say: I received The Good Hawk as part of the January 2020 Book Box Club Deadly Secrets box. Deadly secrets is a perfect way to describe the book because it's full of both! Think of a fictional version of the Isle of Skye, set in a past where clans are at war and magic is real (or is it?), and you're still not even close to covering everything in the story.
Agatha is tolerated by her clan (just) and has to hide her true self. Her innocence made me smile and I loved seeing her come into her own. The diversity Elliott has included with Agatha is really important and I particularly appreciated how celebrated she is, without being a box ticking opportunity.
Jaime also goes through a lot in the story. He finds his courage and voice in a world where he doesn't have many choices. I did like the idea of a seasick angler!
The myths of Scotland are so interwoven within the story that I could almost believe that they were real. Elliott never shies away from the horrible truths of life: we see death, betrayal and madness, as well as friendship and love.
The book shows many different ways of being heroic and brave. It highlights the importance of being yourself and not changing for anyone.
I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next...
4 Stars in my Sky!
What I say: I received The Good Hawk as part of the January 2020 Book Box Club Deadly Secrets box. Deadly secrets is a perfect way to describe the book because it's full of both! Think of a fictional version of the Isle of Skye, set in a past where clans are at war and magic is real (or is it?), and you're still not even close to covering everything in the story.
Agatha is tolerated by her clan (just) and has to hide her true self. Her innocence made me smile and I loved seeing her come into her own. The diversity Elliott has included with Agatha is really important and I particularly appreciated how celebrated she is, without being a box ticking opportunity.
Jaime also goes through a lot in the story. He finds his courage and voice in a world where he doesn't have many choices. I did like the idea of a seasick angler!
The myths of Scotland are so interwoven within the story that I could almost believe that they were real. Elliott never shies away from the horrible truths of life: we see death, betrayal and madness, as well as friendship and love.
The book shows many different ways of being heroic and brave. It highlights the importance of being yourself and not changing for anyone.
I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next...
4 Stars in my Sky!
December 9, 2019
The Good Hawk is the first book I’ve ever read that features a main character with Down syndrome, Agatha. This brings a whole new dimension to the story, even if the first chapter was a bit confusing to read at first. You do get used to this particular writing style though as it continues on throughout and marks Agahtas PoV, as opposed to Jaimes. This proves that the author knows what he is writing about, at least in my opinion. Another important topic that is touched on is sexuality and how it’s perceived in different environments. It was surprisingly dark at some points and a bit violent but not overly so.
All in all I really enjoy the book even if there were small parts I found a bit confusing or predictable (but there were some surprises that I didn’t see coming!). The different PoV were very easy to differentiate between even without looking at the beginning of the chapters. If you love mythical Scotland and want to read more books with different representations I can definitely recommend it.
All in all I really enjoy the book even if there were small parts I found a bit confusing or predictable (but there were some surprises that I didn’t see coming!). The different PoV were very easy to differentiate between even without looking at the beginning of the chapters. If you love mythical Scotland and want to read more books with different representations I can definitely recommend it.
July 5, 2021
This book is about a girl called Agatha and a boy called Jamie going on an adventure to true and get their clan back, which has been captured. This book is thrilling and dark, yet there is lots of humour and compassion within. This novel marks the debut of a wonderful new voice of fantasy and welcomes a new type of world.
Agatha is a hawk and patrols along the wall with pride, watching if danger would come from the water. Though, some of her clan who questioned if she should be there, because of a condition that she was born with.
Jamie is an angler, and a reluctant one at that. He is full of self-doubt and wishes all day that he can be on dry land because his is scared of the sea.
I recommend this book, even though I thought that people got killed too quickly into the book, that you couldn't get to know the characters before they were killed. But, i thought that this b0ok was exciting and gripping and I almost couldn't put it down!!! If you haven't read it, i would go and read it now!
Agatha is a hawk and patrols along the wall with pride, watching if danger would come from the water. Though, some of her clan who questioned if she should be there, because of a condition that she was born with.
Jamie is an angler, and a reluctant one at that. He is full of self-doubt and wishes all day that he can be on dry land because his is scared of the sea.
I recommend this book, even though I thought that people got killed too quickly into the book, that you couldn't get to know the characters before they were killed. But, i thought that this b0ok was exciting and gripping and I almost couldn't put it down!!! If you haven't read it, i would go and read it now!
August 15, 2020
Rating: 4.5 stars
I wasn’t sure what to make of things in the beginning, but that ended up being really good! So different from anything I’ve read in a while, truly thrilling at times, plus I loved the inclusion of many types of diversity. I’m looking forward to book 2, as I have so many questions still...
I wasn’t sure what to make of things in the beginning, but that ended up being really good! So different from anything I’ve read in a while, truly thrilling at times, plus I loved the inclusion of many types of diversity. I’m looking forward to book 2, as I have so many questions still...
March 15, 2023
This book was absolutely amazing. A truly stunning yet heroic tale.
2023 reread: although I still love it, I do not think it was worth 5 stars, so instead I gave it 4.
2023 reread: although I still love it, I do not think it was worth 5 stars, so instead I gave it 4.
May 16, 2024
Slow beginning. Everything from Agatha's perspective is dumbed down. I know she has some condition causing an intellectual disability but it almost seems like a bit too dumbed down.
February 21, 2020
‘The fires burned for many months, filling the sky with thick red smoke. They stayed north for over a year, until the sky returned to normal. When they came back down, everyone was dead.’
Agatha and Jaime are part of Clan-a-Tuath on the Isle of Skye. Agatha is a Hawk, someone who patrols the sea wall, a job she takes a lot of pride in despite the people who question her being there because of the condition she was born with. Jaime in an Angler, essentially someone who goes out fishing, and the first person in the clan for a hundred years to be getting married. When the Clan is attacked Agatha and Jaime have to team up an head out on a journey to the main land where forgotten magic and dark secrets start to come to light.
‘The Good Hawk’ is Joseph Elliott’s debut novel and is told told from two main characters’ perspectives and occasionally a third character. The voices of each character were so distinct, particularly Agatha who I found to be really charming. While I can’t speak for how accurately the way her thoughts and speech are written represent a person with Down’s Syndrome, it definitely makes it clear that she is different from the other characters and that being different doesn’t mean you can’t achieve great things. Jaime was also a really interesting character to read about, he is quite an anxious character, particularly at the beginning of the book. He’s terrified of the sea which is quite a big problem for someone who’s job is to go out fishing (the elders of the clan decide a persons job and they are not allowed to change it) and worried about how his marriage will affect his place in the Clan. Nevertheless, he steps up and does what he has to do to help his Clan and it was adorable how his friendship with Agatha developed through the book. My opinion of him did change a little around two thirds of the way through the book when he has a fairly negative reaction to a character who comes out as gay: “I’ve heard about people like that, but I also know it’s not right.” He does also question why it bothers him explicitly stating that it’s none of his business who people are attracted to, eventually forging a stronger friendship with the character, but this doesn’t stop him from beating a character who merely suggests that Jaime himself may be gay. It is possible that these could be hints at some internalised homophobia (maybe?) that could be explored further in the rest of the trilogy.
This book was a lot darker than I expected, like many heads were removed kind of dark, and I loved that. This really is like a Game of Thrones for younger readers but at the same time manages to be quite a unique fantasy. It did take me about 150 pages to really get into the story but after that I found the book really enjoyable in terms of its plot. Agatha getting to grips with some magical powers was really interesting and the parts when she used them were some of my favourites. However, I did feel like the magic system was a little underdeveloped, leaving me with a lot of questions, but I’m sure this is something that will be picked up in the later books where the answers to my questions will hopefully be found!
Thank you Walker Books for the free copy of ‘The Good Hawk’.
+ Great characters
+ The world was really interesting and left me wanting more
- A bit of a slow start
- Possible homophobia that might be triggering for some readers
Agatha and Jaime are part of Clan-a-Tuath on the Isle of Skye. Agatha is a Hawk, someone who patrols the sea wall, a job she takes a lot of pride in despite the people who question her being there because of the condition she was born with. Jaime in an Angler, essentially someone who goes out fishing, and the first person in the clan for a hundred years to be getting married. When the Clan is attacked Agatha and Jaime have to team up an head out on a journey to the main land where forgotten magic and dark secrets start to come to light.
‘The Good Hawk’ is Joseph Elliott’s debut novel and is told told from two main characters’ perspectives and occasionally a third character. The voices of each character were so distinct, particularly Agatha who I found to be really charming. While I can’t speak for how accurately the way her thoughts and speech are written represent a person with Down’s Syndrome, it definitely makes it clear that she is different from the other characters and that being different doesn’t mean you can’t achieve great things. Jaime was also a really interesting character to read about, he is quite an anxious character, particularly at the beginning of the book. He’s terrified of the sea which is quite a big problem for someone who’s job is to go out fishing (the elders of the clan decide a persons job and they are not allowed to change it) and worried about how his marriage will affect his place in the Clan. Nevertheless, he steps up and does what he has to do to help his Clan and it was adorable how his friendship with Agatha developed through the book. My opinion of him did change a little around two thirds of the way through the book when he has a fairly negative reaction to a character who comes out as gay: “I’ve heard about people like that, but I also know it’s not right.” He does also question why it bothers him explicitly stating that it’s none of his business who people are attracted to, eventually forging a stronger friendship with the character, but this doesn’t stop him from beating a character who merely suggests that Jaime himself may be gay. It is possible that these could be hints at some internalised homophobia (maybe?) that could be explored further in the rest of the trilogy.
This book was a lot darker than I expected, like many heads were removed kind of dark, and I loved that. This really is like a Game of Thrones for younger readers but at the same time manages to be quite a unique fantasy. It did take me about 150 pages to really get into the story but after that I found the book really enjoyable in terms of its plot. Agatha getting to grips with some magical powers was really interesting and the parts when she used them were some of my favourites. However, I did feel like the magic system was a little underdeveloped, leaving me with a lot of questions, but I’m sure this is something that will be picked up in the later books where the answers to my questions will hopefully be found!
Thank you Walker Books for the free copy of ‘The Good Hawk’.
+ Great characters
+ The world was really interesting and left me wanting more
- A bit of a slow start
- Possible homophobia that might be triggering for some readers
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