Briar's Book (Circle of Magic #4)
Grade 5-8–In the fourth book of Tamora Pierce's series (Scholastic, 1999), we follow the continuing adventures of four young mages in training: Tris, Sandry, Daja, and Briar. Each has a different magical talent, and Briar's is his ability to tap into the life energy of plants. The story begins with Briar's discovery that Flick, a friend from his past as a street urchin, has contracted an unusual illness. The disease spreads and before long becomes a plague. When Briar's beloved teacher, Rosethorn, contracts the illness, it becomes a race against time as Briar and the others struggle to find a cure. The author serves as narrator and the story is fleshed out with the many voices of a full cast production. Pierce reads her work in a slow and serious tone appropriate to the story, but some listeners might become frustrated with the pace. The other voice actors do their parts justice, but occasionally sound forced as they tackle some of Pierce's dialogue. As listeners are drawn into the production and caught up in the tension of the story, however, these minor problems become unimportant. The story stands well enough on its own for those unfamiliar with the previous titles in the series, but the emotional stakes are raised for those already acquainted with Briar. A good addition for audiobook collections, particularly those with the previous titles already on their shelves.–Jenna Innes, Grande Prairie Public Library, Alberta, Canada--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.