Frostborn by Lou Anders (review)

Abstract

Reviewed by: Frostborn by Lou Anders April Spisak Anders, Lou Frostborn; illus. by Justin Gerard. Crown, 2014 317 p (Thrones & Bones) Library ed. ISBN 978-0-385-38779-8 $19.99 Trade ed. ISBN 978-0-385-38778-1 $16.99 E-book ed. ISBN 978-0-385-38780-4 $10.99 R Gr. 4–6 Karn, a reluctant farmer-to-be, and Thianna, a half-giant determined to prove her worth even if she is only seven feet tall, agree to help each other when they’re forced to leave their homes; a friendship emerges as they bond over shared danger and a game that they both enjoy, Thrones and Bones. Karn wants to save his father from his undead captors and make his uncle pay for his betrayal, and Thianna needs to learn more about her late human mother and a strange tool that her mother stole; both would also very much like to stay alive despite all that conspires against [End Page 193] them. From the start, the book creates a rich and elegant land, with diverse cultures explained well enough to provide tantalizing glimpses into a setting that is massive, well imagined, and carefully detailed. Karn and Thianna are both likable protagonists, flawed but intensely loyal, and quick on their feet in distinct ways that mesh well together. Readers will certainly be pleased to note that this is the first novel in an anticipated series, and they’ll happily find many leads to frost giants, Nordic folktales, and Viking history that could easily keep them occupied until the next volume comes along. Extensive extras include a map, song lyrics, game instructions, and an author’s note that offers a bit more insight into exactly what cultures and folkloric elements were borrowed from to construct this original yet familiar setting. Copyright © 2014 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois