Series ~ Single Title
Author ~ Maggie Stiefvater
Release Date ~ October 18, 2011
Age Group ~ Young Adult
Publisher ~ Scholastic Press
Source ~ The Nerd’s Wife
AUTHOR’S SUMMARY
It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.
At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.
Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.
REVIEW
The capaill uisce have a wild beauty as they run along the beach. However, they are also a dangerous and intimidating type of water horse. The capaill uisce eat meat, including that of their human victims. Each November, when the waters rise on the island of Thisby, the great horses emerge. It is time for horses and humans to join together in The Scorpio Races.
The races themselves are breathtaking. Maggie Stiefvater describes savage animals with an instinctive thirst for blood. The fearful riders find bravery as they race. Death is in the air, and yet the races continue. Exhilarating!
There is a special connection between Sean and Puck. Sean, the four-time champion, races for freedom. He is a quiet soul with a passion for the capaill uisce. Despite the wild nature of the horses, they are drawn to Sean and form a sort of bond with him. In particular, Sean is especially close with his water horse, Corr. Strong and determined Puck races for her family. As the first female to enter the races, Puck takes on the qualities of a leader. While facing fierce opposition from the other racers, Puck never doubts herself. She is so brave. This unlikely pair won me over.
Narration switches between Sean and Puck. Both had a story to share, and I enjoyed the chance to peek into each of their minds. The use of really short chapters, sometimes only two pages, is refreshing and the details make a huge impact. Nothing is lost and every word is savored.
The Scorpio Races is a must read of epic proportions!
TRAILER
RATING
5 Loved
COVER COMMENTS
The red and gold brings to mind royalty. In this case, it seems to be a nod to the importance of the races. The horse and rider look so in tune with each other and at ease. Oh, if only it were that simple. Love this cover that shows all things are not always what they appear to be.
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