Who Would Like This Book:
If you're looking for a story packed with grit, determination, and girl-power, First Test is a winner. Keladry (Kel) is fiercely inspirational - she wants to be a knight in a world that’s never trained a girl before, and Tamora Pierce writes her with tons of empathy and smarts. Expect compelling friendships, a strong dose of anti-bullying themes, and an underdog to root for. This book is perfect for kids - especially girls - who want stories featuring strong female leads overcoming obstacles, and for anyone who loves medieval settings, loyal animal companions, and realistic character growth. Great for both younger readers and nostalgic adults alike!
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers found Kel too mature or stoic for her young age and missed the magical elements prominent in other Tamora Pierce books. Others felt the plot wasn’t as original or gripping if they’d read similar "girl in knight school" stories before, especially Alanna. If you want lots of political intrigue, romance, or magical fireworks, this more straightforward "prove yourself" tale might feel a bit simple or slow - plus, some wished for more depth with side characters and worldbuilding. If you prefer emotionally expressive protagonists, Kel’s reserved demeanor might not click for you.
About:
"First Test" by Tamora Pierce is about a young girl named Keladry who dreams of becoming a lady knight. Set in a medieval fantasy world, Kel faces societal restrictions and prejudices as she trains to prove herself among her male peers. The story focuses on themes of determination, overcoming obstacles, friendship, and the empowerment of a strong, non-traditional heroine.
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From The Publisher:
Kel will not allow this first test to be her last. Her adventure begins in the New York Times bestselling series from the fantasy author who is a legend herself: TAMORA PIERCE.
Keladry of Mindelan is the first girl who dares to take advantage of a new rule in Tortall-one that allows females to train for knighthood. After years in the Yamani Islands, she knows that women can be warriors, and now that she's returned home, Kel is determined to achieve her goal. She believes she is ready for the traditional hazing and grueling schedule of a page. But standing in Kel's way is Lord Wyldon. The training master is dead set against girls becoming knights. He says she must pass a one-year trial that no male page has ever had to endure. It's just one more way to separate Kel from her fellow trainees. But she is not to be underestimated. She will fight to succeed, even when the test is unfair.
More timely than ever, the Protector of the Small series is Anti-Bullying 101 while also touching on issues of bravery, friendship, and dealing humanely with refugees against a backdrop of an action-packed fantasy adventure.
"Tamora Pierce's books shaped me not only as a young writer but also as a young woman. She is a pillar, an icon, and an inspiration. Cracking open one of her marvelous novels always feels like coming home."
-SARAH J. MAAS, #1 New York Times bestselling author
"Tamora Pierce didn't just blaze a trail. Her heroines cut a swath through the fantasy world with wit, strength, and savvy. Her stories still lead the vanguard today. Pierce is the real lioness, and we're all just running to keep pace."
-LEIGH BARDUGO, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Ratings (61)
Incredible (19) | |
Loved It (28) | |
Liked It (9) | |
It Was OK (2) | |
Did Not Like (1) | |
Hated It (2) |
Reader Stats (99):
Read It (64) | |
Want To Read (20) | |
Did Not Finish (2) | |
Not Interested (13) |
2 comment(s)
This really is setup for the next book, but even here there’s early hints of what will later become definitive facets of Kel’s character.
A lot of this book is Kel meeting people, weapons training and overcoming (and fighting) hazing. It’s a good book - I don’t know, I don’t have much more to say about it than that.
Such a great book! I think I'm going to like this series even more than I like The Immortals. Kel is a strong, serene, smart, and a good warrior. I'm looking forward to starting the next book.
What can you read after
First Test?
About the Author:
TAMORA PIERCE is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of over eighteen novels set in the fantasy realm of Tortall. She first captured the imagination of readers with her debut novel, Alanna: The First Adventure. Since then, her bestselling and award-winning titles have…
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