This morning, the FedEx truck brought me one of the most exciting moments of my life to date. An early copy of Frostborn (Thrones and Bones)
(sent in advance of the case that will follow). The book comes out August 5th, so the rest of you will have wait. Meanwhile, I am trying very very hard to contain my excitement. And, um, failing.
Gorgeous art by Justin Gerard. Design by Ken Crossland.
ANDERS, Lou. Frostborn. illus. by Justin Gerard. 320p. (Thrones and Bones: Bk. 1). Crown. Aug. 2014. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9780385387781.
Gr 5-8–Karn would rather be playing his beloved board game, “thrones and bones,” than learning to become hauld of his father’s farm, which has been passed down many generations. He meets Thianna, a half-giant, half-human girl who longs to fit in with the club-wielding frost giants, the only community she’s ever known. When a tragedy reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Hamlet occurs, the two pair up in order to survive. They soon realize the danger that they’re in and that they need each other’s unique skills to survive. Aside from the sometimes difficult-to-decipher Norse names, the language is quite easy to understand and that, coupled with the shorter-than-your-average-fantasy length, makes this an excellent choice for readers new to the genre. The themes of staying true to oneself, teamwork, and individuality will resonate with readers. Fans of Matthew Kirby’s Icefall (Scholastic, 2011) who bemoaned the lack of magic in that book will enjoy this new series. A good addition to a fantasy collection with potential for future entries.–Jessica Ko, Los Angeles Public Library
KIRKUS REVIEW
An obsessive gamer and a sassy half-giant affirm that power lies in being underestimated.
As the heir apparent to a powerful farm in Norrøngard (think a fictional Norway), 12-year-old Karn is expected to comprehend bartering techniques (six ewes + six lambs = one cow). His predilection for Thrones and Bones (a traditional Norrønir board game) and disdain for a bucolic existence don’t invite any confidence from his father. Thianna is a 12-year-old half-giant and half-human (by way of her deceased mother). At 7 feet tall, she’s considered diminutive by giant standards and would “cut her human half out in an instant if she could.” When their fathers meet for several days of trading goods, Thianna and Karn strike up an unexpected friendship. Their need for an alliance is accelerated when nemeses from Thianna’s mother’s past surface, and Karn’s life is designated an obstacle by his Machiavellian uncle. Enter: wyverns, a seemingly silent horn, undead assailants, flatulent trolls and one massive dragon. A merging of comedy, action and suspense maintains a promising pace. As present as the lurking danger are two important messages: Focus your energy toward accentuating your strengths rather than regretting weaknesses, and always stand downwind from a troll.
That last line especially, huh?Future fans of Tolkien and George R.R. Martin can happily cut their serial-fantasy teeth on this first book of an eventual series. (map, illustrated guide to the Thrones and Bones game) (Fantasy. 10-14)
This is a big week for my novel Frostborn (Thrones and Bones book one). First, yesterday I did my first ever school visit in support of the book. I regularly speak at conventions, writing workshops, colleges, and libraries throughout the year, but this was the first time I've ever spoken about my forthcoming book to the age range its intended for! has made Publishers Weekly's BEA 2014: Children's Galleys to Grab list. They do get the title wrong, but the rest is on point: "Firstborn by debut novelist Lou Anders, a middle-grade tale of trolls, giants, and dragons."
