Ratha and Thistle-Chaser
Grade 7 Up-- Drought has come to the prehistoric world of the Named in this sequel to Ratha's Creature (1983) and Clan Ground (1984, both Atheneum). Under the leadership of the strong-willed Ratha, the clan of intelligent cats searches out new grazing land for the herd beasts upon which their survival depends. Miles away, on the coast, a young wild cat battles desperately for her own survival. Rejected by the languageless unnamed cats, and lamed physically and emotionally by a cubhood trauma, Newt forges a symbiotic relationship with a group of docile sea mammals. When Thakur, one of the Named, discovers her, he is intrigued by her ingenuity and tenacity. In a series of well-crafted scenes, Thakur teaches Newt to speak and she gives voice to the intelligence and humor within her. Readers soon realize that Newt is Thistle-chaser, the daughter whose memory has haunted Ratha since the first book when--convinced that her own cubs were genetically unfit--she rejected the litter, maiming her favorite in a moment of rage and anguish. Slowly the story brings mother and daughter closer until, in a dramatic conflict, both cats must face the single event that has tormented their lives. There are no easy answers in this book; young readers are challenged to understand the ambiguities of love and leadership, as well as the moral limits of even the most well-meaning intellect. The clear-sighted portrayal of Newt's emotional trauma is both painful and healing in its accuracy. Among the joys of this series are the well-observed feline protagonists who chew at fleas and sense first with their noses, all the while observing their primitive world with acuity and catlike humor. Skilled readers of fantasy who demand excellent craftsmanship, complex characters, a compelling plot, and fresh insights into family and society will be more than satisfied with this powerful novel. --Carolyn Polese, Gateway Community School, Arcata,Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.