Pierce, Tamora. Terrier

Kliatt, Jan, 2007 by Lesley Farmer

PIERCE, Tamora. Terrier. (Beka Cooper, Book One; A Tortall Legend.) Random House. 581p. map. c2006. 978-0-375-81468-6. $18.95. JS

Tamora Pierce holds a longstanding reputation as a leading fantasy writer for teens. Her latest series, the Tortall Legend, continues her fine work. Sixteen-year-old Beka Cooper is a product of the rough-and-tumble Lower City. She has become a "Puppy," apprenticed to two worthy "Dogs" who serve the King as protectors of the city of Corus. As such, Beka must chase down criminals and help bring them to justice; her only weapons are her wooden baton, her wits, and her ability to listen. This latter skill extends to the world of the dead as she can hear ghostly whispers carried by pigeons and dust spinners. She is also befriended by a supernatural cat named Pounce, and has a few loyal human friends to make life more bearable.

Beka keeps a diary of her adventures, which are many. She is outraged at the kidnapping and murder of innocent children, caused by the greed of the Shadow Snake. Adults too are starting to die--by poison. Even though the old neighborhood has always been troublesome, this increase in crime is intolerable to Beka, and she aims to protect it against all odds. As she and the Dogs keep getting stymied in their pursuit of the killers, it is no wonder that Beka eventually is called "Terrier" for her dogged persistence.

Readers who fancy a British-sounding fantasy will enjoy Pierce's latest entry. Beka is a credible teenager who develops character throughout the book. The detailed setting and plot are believable and suspenseful. The violence is tastefully handled, and any sexual activity is discretely written so younger readers (and their adult caregivers) will feel comfortable. The visual layout is also very attractive: larger, spaced typeface with solid-line borders and corner filigrees. A welcome addition to Pierce's opus--and the makings of a great movie. Dr. Lesley Farmer, Lib. Svcs., CSULB, Long Beach, CA

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.