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The Naming

by Alison Groggon

Published by Candlewick Press

Print edition 2006

Reviewed by Jonette Butler Review posted 2/18/09



We meet the world of Pellinor in a trilogy by Alison Groggon from Candlewick Press. The first book is The Naming. Pellinor is a world full of magic and mystery. The battle between “The Dark” and “The Light” is ongoing. Right now the light is in control, but the dark seems to be gaining ground.

In this world magic is all tied up with something called The Speech, the inborn language of the Bards, who wield magic, create and run schools to teach those who come into The Speech and are supposed to serve the people’s magical needs.

Maerad (My-rad) is a teen-aged girl who has been held in slavery since she was a small child. She is rescued by one of the greatest Bards of the time and discovers an entire world she never new existed. The characters are well developed, the world is well-built. The back cover of the first book says it is for ages 12 and up, but there are some concepts like fear of rape that may not be appropriate for a less mature adolescent. For an adolescent who can handle those concepts, The Naming is well worth reading. It held my interest, and I’m looking forward to starting The Second Book of Pellinor: The Riddle right away! For more info see the website: www.booksofpellinor.com

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