According to Maggie Stiefvater, she has been fascinated with the myth of the water horses for quite some time. She has tried to write about them before, but could never get the story right. It wasn't until after Stiefvater wrote the Shiver trilogy that she went back to attempt it again.
This time, success.
I loved the story of Sean, the boy who has won the Scorpio races four times. The boy who races for the joy and his love on a water horse.
And I loved the story of Puck (Kate, to those who don't her well) who must race to save what she loves.
And, though, Stiefvater may not think she has written their story, I love the story of the water horses. The majesty of their rise from the ocean and their drive to return. The violence of the races. The training days, the storm that brought horses inland, the race day.
And how can you not read a story who's first line is, "It is the first day of November and so, today, someone will die."
Maggie Stiefvater says that she envisions The Scorpio Races as a stand alone novel. I hope not. I am not ready to let go of the story of Sean and Puck and the horses....
Sounds like an interesting book - I'll add it to my TBR list. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWow, that first line of the book is great!
ReplyDeleteI keep seeing that book and wondering about it. You certainly make it sound delicious... and I love a good horse story!
ReplyDeleteI would say--Boy appeal. But I really liked it. Lots of action, especially once you get into a few pages
DeleteOh Deb, I just loved this book. I have given it to everyone who will take it. I read it over Christmas break and couldn't put it down. I was hooked from begining to end. I'm so glad that you enjoyed it too.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great book. I'm hoping my 5-6 kids will be ready for it. You have me hooked from your review.
ReplyDeleteI loved the Scorpio Races as well. It was my first Stiefvater, but definitely not my last. I think what I loved most about it were the characters. I'm a sucker for character study, especially such likeable characters as Puck and Sean.
ReplyDeleteI loved this book as well! I am looking for a book to read with my 7th graders next year; I usually do Hunger Games, but everyone will now know the story with the movie out... Do you think this story is too over their heads? Are they too young for it? The advice of anyone who has read this book would be appreciated, thanks!
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