I loved Garlic and the Vampire so I knew I had to read Paulsen’s latest. And this fantastical story about sisters, magic, and the truth was great. It’s a different vibe than Garlic by elevating the age group and examining the lies we are told by people we might trust. Keep reading this book review of The Firelight Apprentice for my full thoughts.
Summary
In a city powered by magic and still recovering from a bloody war, Ada is concerned about her younger sister Safi’s developing powers. She understands that Safi could learn how to control her magic under the apprenticeship of a king’s magician. But with the memories of war still fresh, Ada is conflicted by this prospect—despite her knowing that she can’t keep Safi safely at home with the threat of deadly, power-thieving liches prowling the kingdom.
When a traveling group of magicians comes to the city to perform, they immediately recognize Safi’s talents and offer to take her on as an apprentice. Safi is thrilled about her new adventure—even if that means leaving behind Ada and their sickly father. And Ada is right to worry about her sister, for there may be monsters hiding behind friendly faces…
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
With the same drawing style as Garlic and the Vampire, except with fewer vegetables, The Firelight Apprentice is a gorgeous book. I adored the color scheme and the way it subtly changes throughout the book. The Firelight Apprentice is ultimately a story about power and the truth. When we have power, we can often manipulate history and the truth to fit what we want. It’s easy to trust everything we are told, especially when it’s from someone we look up to or want to trust. But often we have to listen to our gut and realize that people don’t always have our best intentions in mind.
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The Firelight Apprentice has immediate steam punk vibes. It also reminded me a bit of woodcuts in term of drawing style. This book is great for middle grade readers who are exploring the idea of going off on their own, of their own ambitions, and learning about the relatability of the truth. Find The Firelight Apprentice on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon, Bookshop.org, & Blackwells.