FIRE AND WOLVES

In the magical land of Etria, 10-year-old Sabine Wolfensberger possesses the rare but powerful gift of shape-shifting. Though she comes from a long line of powerful family members(including three brothers pursuing knighthood and an infamous grandfather ominously nicknamed The Wolf), Sabine longs to master her own magic and make a name for herself. As The Wolf escorts his granddaughter to Onaxx Academy School for Mages, Sabine reflects that her journey is just beginning—and is sure to present many challenges. She struggles to learn magic, escape her family’s looming shadow, and find her place among her classmates, both friends and foes. Cruel bullies and strict teachers threaten to break Sabine’s fiery spirit, but with the help of new friends, kind mentors, and her trusty horse, Midnight, Sabine is up for any challenge. The author expertly sets the stage with a number of tried-and-true tropes of YA fantasy novels: a magical boarding school, novice mages, trusty animal sidekicks (wolves, horses, and other cool creatures), and the like. Though Jensen’s world teems with potential, it could benefit from more development. The medieval-type setting, lovable students, varied teachers, and, most importantly, the treatment of magic create a solid foundation that leaves the reader wanting more, but the narrative is somewhat lacking in the rich detail that makes fantasy so compelling. Still, Sabine is a sympathetic protagonist who leads young readers through relatable and integral lessons, such as how to deal with bullies through self-empowerment and the help of trusted adults and treasured friends. Though more of a sketch than a finished portrait, the world of Etria is an enticing one, sure to draw young readers.