First Test (Book 1 of the Protector of the Small Quartet

Pierce, Tamora. FIRST TEST (BOOK 1 OF THE SMALL QUARTET). 1999. New York: Random House Children's Books. ISBN 0679889140

Plot Summary:

Alanna is excited to know that another young girl wants to be a page.  Being a page was a step that led on the path becoming a knight. What made this experience different is that Kelandry is the daughter of a Baron and she would not have to hide her sex. Kelandry is excited to learn that she will be able to study and become a page but there is a stipulation: that she will go through a probationary period. Kelandry doesn't like this, because she wants to be treated just like the boys. As she begins her training, Kelandry is teased and taunted for wanting to be a page instead of a noble lady. 

Critical Analysis:

First Test was a good read. Ms. Pierce writes in a style that is easy to follow and understand. She offers a setting that is medieval but isn't too dark and heavy with violence. The characters of Alanna and Kelandry are well-written; Ms. Pierce doesn't make them too girly or even tomboyish. She balances the girls with personalities that are strong, respectful, but have grit and determination.  Throughout the story as Kelandry trains, the reader gets the impression that girls and boys have defined roles and they are not to try things not meant for them. Something that makes this story fantastic fiction is the use of magic by Alanna.  It is believed that because of Alanna's "gift" that is how she was able to achieve knighthood. Although, First Test may at times seem to be trying to capture the magic like Harry Potter (mentioning Alanna); it is a story that stands alone.

Review Excerpt(s):

"This is a nice quick read with a smooth cohesive plot that really works as both a primer for the world and a refresher for returning reader. I am giving it such a high rating for mostly enjoyment purposes but do still think this is a very solid first book for a series."(https://hedwigsworldofbooks.home.blog/2020/06/14/review-first-test-by-tamora-pierce-the-protector-of-the-small/. 2020, June. Accessed 2022, November15)

Connections:

Ask students if they are familiar with classism and sexism. Have them think about places and things that are impacted by these two systems.

The words found in this review are my own. They are written for a graduate studies class at Sam Houston State University.