"THE STONE HEART: The Nameless City," by Faith Erin Hicks, First Second, $21.99, 256 pages (f) (ages 8-16)
Picking up from where book one ended, Kaidu and Rat have been enjoying the peace and notoriety that came after uncovering an assassination attempt on the city’s ruler. But they soon realize their country is undergoing political upheaval in “The Stone Heart: The Nameless City” by Faith Erin Hicks.
The group of Dao rulers is divided regarding how to undergo diplomatic efforts with the Yisun Nation. At first, Kaidu and Rat assume the adults will handle things. But then a vicious act shifts power to one who prefers violence instead of diplomacy, and the two find themselves on the run for their lives.
Rather than turning to refuge outside the city, Kaidu and Rat instead choose to stay with those they love and trust inside the dangerous city walls. Then, when a secret one of them holds becomes known, their sanctuary is gone forever and it appears a terrible power may become unleashed. “The Stone Heart” begins peacefully but ends on a cliffhanger that could leave readers desperate for a resolution and eager for the last book in the trilogy.
Besides its page-turning plot, every page of “The Stone Heart” has gorgeous, full-color artwork. The definite Asian influence throughout its pages adds to the exotic feel of the story, and it’s easy to become lost in the pictures and forget about turning to the next page.
Although geared towards middle grade readers, parents may want to exercise caution before giving this book to their children. While “The Stone Heart” has no profanities in it and only minor violent scenes, there is an instance of patricide that could leave young readers shocked. Also, while there isn’t any kissing or sexual innuendo, there is a gay reference to a minor male character having a crush on another male.
An award-winning cartoonist, Hicks lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.
If you go …
What: Faith Erin Hicks book signing
When: Friday, April 7, 7 p.m.
Where: The King's English, 1511 S. 1500 East
Web: kingsenglish.com
Note: The signing line is for those who buy a copy of the featured book from The King's English.
Elizabeth Reid has bachelor's degrees in economics and history. A wife and mother, she loves learning people's love stories and blogs about her own at agoodreid.blogspot.com.