Enna Burning
by Shannon Hale
Published by Bloomsbury
Click on book
cover to order
at Amazon.com
Reviewed by Andrea Sisco
Shannon Hale's Enna Burning is the companion novel to The Goose Girl. Each book stands alone, but it is suggested, for greater reading pleasure, that you read The Goose Girl first. And then, pick up Princess Academy, a Newbery Honor book, for a wonderful reading journey. Hale has become my favorite Young Adult/Middle Reader author.
Enna, age 16, appears in The Goose Girl as a minor character. In Enna Burning, she takes the center stage.
Enna's life is not easy or simple. Her brother Leifer brings home some vellum which allows him to learn how to set fires without the use of flint. It's a gift that causes Enna increasing problems. She's not sure if it's knowledge to be embraced, feared or discarded. The power of the flame will test her will and determination beyond anything she has experienced.
When Enna's country goes to war, she must make choices she never imagined she'd have to make. She experiences the loss of Leifer who fights a battle, but loses his own life, as well as destruction and fear of the powerful flame. It is up to Enna to help her country of Bayern achieve victory.
Enna Burning is a darker tale than The Goose Girl, but that merely gives it more layers. The story of war and friendship is one we never tire of, and Hale's deft hand delivers a satisfying conclusion. Her characters are rich, her plot intriguing and her voice brings everything together. They all beg to be reread.
The next outing is River Secrets, and we can't wait.
Armchair Interviews says: For powerful storytelling, read all of Shannon Hale's novels.
Author's Web site: http://www.ShannonHale.com