About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the physical and social transitions of puberty or feeling the pressure of hiding their true self to fit into a specific role. As Alanna enters her teenage years while still disguised as a boy to pursue knighthood, she faces the dual challenge of a changing body and a growing attraction to her peers. The story provides a safe, fantastical space to explore the anxiety of being found out and the courage required to claim one's own path. In this second installment of the Song of the Lioness quartet, Alanna becomes a squire to Prince Jonathan and begins her training in earnest. Beyond the swordplay and sorcery, the narrative focuses heavily on Alanna's internal development, her first experiences with romantic love, and her determination to be judged by her merit rather than her gender. It is an empowering choice for readers aged 10 to 14 who are looking for a story about personal integrity and the complicated reality of growing up.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
1. DISTRESS: There are scenes of magical combat and peril that involve the threat of death. Specifically, the scene in the Black City involves high-tension encounters with supernatural entities that may be frightening for younger readers. The final confrontation with Duke Roger involves a lethal duel and a betrayal by a trusted adult figure. 2. CONVERSATION: Parents should be prepared to discuss puberty and menstruation. Alanna's first period is a significant plot point as she tries to hide it in an all-male environment. There is also a scene where Alanna and Jonathan have a physical encounter that implies a sexual awakening, though it is handled with 1980s-era fantasy subtlety.
Ideal Reader
A middle schooler who loves high-stakes fantasy, coming-of-age stories, and themes of perseverance and self-discovery.
Parent Prep
Parents may want to preview the 'Black City' chapters for intensity and the scenes where Alanna and Jonathan's friendship turns romantic to ensure they are comfortable with the maturity level. A child who is interested in stories about breaking barriers or overcoming unfair rules, or a child showing anxiety about their changing body.
Age Experience
Younger readers (10-11) will focus on the magic, the horses, and the excitement of the knightly trials. Older readers (13-14) will more deeply resonate with Alanna's struggle for identity and the nuances of her romantic choices.
What Makes It Special
This book is a pioneer in the 'girl-disguised-as-a-boy' trope, standing out for its realistic and frank depiction of a female protagonist's physical development within a high-fantasy setting.
Read plot summary
Alanna of Trebond continues her masquerade as 'Alan' while serving as squire to Prince Jonathan. The stakes rise as Alanna begins to suspect Duke Roger, the King's nephew, of using dark sorcery to undermine the crown. Throughout her training, Alanna must also navigate the onset of puberty and her first romantic feelings for both Jonathan and the charismatic George Cooper, King of the Thieves. The book culminates in Alanna's Ordeal of Knighthood, where she must face her greatest fears and decide whether to reveal her true identity to the kingdom.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Alanna is terrified of Duke Roger long before she has proof he is evil. Why do you think she trusts her instincts, and when should you trust yours?
2
Jonathan knows Alanna's secret but doesn't tell anyone. Is keeping a secret for a friend always the right thing to do, even if it might be dangerous?
3
How does Alanna's relationship with George Cooper differ from her relationship with Prince Jonathan?
4
During the Ordeal of Knighthood, Alanna has to face her greatest fears. If you were in the Chamber of the Ordeal, what do you think you would see?
5
Alanna says she doesn't want to fall in love because she wants to be a warrior. Do you think it is possible for her to be both?
