Jim West (5) (1977–)

Brilliant! I love everything about this book, from the concept to the execution to the characters. Alex, a girl, is adrift in a new realm, putting her on a heroic journey, which is terrific on it's own given that good female leading roles in adventure and battle books are so preciously rare. She comes to learn that what will save her is harnessing her smart brain, and that unlike the common assumption that math, science and adventure are not girl things, she will be taught to focus on the magic of math.

Modeling a great student-teacher relationship, the great Archimedes guides her, assuring her that math is not something she can cordon off or that one needs to be a STEM genius to master- "Math is everywhere and everything involves it." Math and science equal magic, and this concept played out alongside myth, mystery -- plus tribal council and hierarchical politics -- creates a compelling read. Overall, n this new alternative world, themes of the role of destiny, power, emotions, rebellion, dreams and self direction are presented in a rich, satisfying way.

I loved the language in the book, too--war stories can be hard to write and this strikes a nice balance of strategy, procedure and vivid battle scenes. We have a real sense of the high stakes through the characters. In all a great read that will leave YA fans ready for more.… (more)