The Warrior Heir

The Warrior Heir
By Cinda Williams Chima
Hyperion Books for Children, 2006. 426 pgs. Young Adult

Jack’s ordinary life turns quite extraordinary when his aunt Linda takes him and two friends on a road trip to research some genealogy. Attacked by men with strange powers, Jack fights back and discovers he has his own special powers. After this skirmish, Linda tells Jack that he is a Warrior Heir, one of the Weirlind who possesses magical powers. Originally Jack was born a wizard, but due to a defect, he has become a warrior and is being hunted by a wizard faction. Jack receives proper training for his skills, but realizes more is at stake than his abilities.

Fans of fantasy will enjoy this one, especially teenage boys. Jack is a relatable character and his struggles, while mostly magical, are familiar. My one quibble is the amount of background information; while it is needed, there is so much and it bogs the story down. However, I look forward to Chima’s visit here on September 20th.

MN