The Shamer's War

Kaaberbol, Lene. The Shamer's War. Henry Holt and Company; 2004. ISBN: 0805077715.

Plot Summary:
Dina Tonerre and her mother, Melussina are not normal. They are witches, devil's spawn according to some, but the proper term is, Shamers. If you look them in the eye, any wrong you have done will flash between you and make you feel rotten, worthless and ashamed. Dina and her mother do not abuse their gift but try to live unobtrusively. Draken the Dragon Lord is spreading war across the land and burning Shamers at the stake. Davin, Dina's brother and Nico their adopted brother are also swept up in the tumult of war. Nico is Draken's cousin and the rightful ruler of the land. Nico is convinced that if he assassinates Draken then the war will stop and lives will be saved. The problem is Nico hates swords and fighting and his talents lie in books and speeches, not war and fighting. Killing Draken will not be easy, if possible at all.

Critical Evaluation:
This is the last book in The Shamer Chronicles. The series contains four books, each written in Danish and translated by author Lene Kaaberbol. By far the best book in the series, The Shamer's War ties up all the loose ends even up to the last sentence. This book was really hard to put down. Part of the experience was that I cared so much about all of the characters. Written in alternative first person voice between Dina and Davin, we really know how they feel and the cost of certain circumstances. The time frame is never discussed, but by the descriptions of daily life it is reveled to be the middle ages. There are a few subtle references to sex and sex outside of marriage which involve the main characters. Given the harsh realities presented in the book, the topic does not seem out of place. Supernatural abilities and the harsh realities of life shape Dina and Davin's lives. Kids/teens can be powerful and make a difference in the world of fiction and in reality too.

Reader's Annotation:
Sometimes wars are won with battles and sometimes with words.

Bibliotherapeutic Uses:
Difficult situations do not last forever, but while they are happening it seems they will never end. Summoning courage to stand up for yourself can be difficult, but worth it.

Genre:
Fantasy/Epic Fantasy

Why I Included This Book:
I really enjoyed the other books in the series. Books that are popular in other countries add a nice flavor to the collection.