Returner's Wealth

Gr 9 Up—The creators of "The Edge Chronicles" (Random) introduce an exciting new world full of dinosaurlike creatures called wyrmes. Wyrmeweald is a harsh and unforgiving place, particularly to those who travel there seeking their fortune through gemstones, wyrme ivory, or anything else of value that can be carried out. Micah, a poor 17-year-old from the plains, travels to the rocky high country in search of his own "returner's wealth." While he is hunting for a wyve (a wyrme egg), he is gravely injured by its protector, the beautiful but deadly Thrace. As wyrmekin, she is powerfully bonded with the great whitewyrm Aseel, whom she rides and fights alongside as wyrmes are cruelly hunted and harvested for their parts. Fortunately, Micah is found by Eli, a tough inhabitant of the region who becomes his travel partner and mentor. The young men follow a murderous band only to find a wounded and unconscious Thrace. As the group joins together set on revenge, Micah and Thrace are drawn to each other emotionally and physically despite their differences. Vivid details, highly descriptive short chapters told from a variety of interesting characters, and black-and-white sketches sprinkled throughout help bring to life a thorough picture of the brutality and desolateness of Wyrmeweald. The first book in what's sure to be a popular trilogy ends with the humans securing their winter den as the cruel fullwinter is approaching. Violence and adult themes make Returner's Wealth most appropriate for mature readers.—Sherry J. Mills, Hazelwood East High School, St. Louis, MO