From the Publisher
An epic journey woven with breathtaking prose and a spellbinding and treacherous tale. A new classic, with the power to heal and triumph.” — Donna Barba Higuera, Newbery Medal-winning author of The Last Cuentista
"Spellbinding and vivid. Rajani LaRocca has created a magical realm like no other, a hero to cheer for, and a mystery that grows deeper with every page turn. Like all great fantasy, the world of Sona and the Golden Beasts shines a powerful light on our own." — Christina Soontornvat, three-time Newbery Honor recipient
“LaRocca’s intricate South Asian–inspired world is richly developed. A fully immersive and enchanting fantasy that readers will get lost in.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"A meaningful and magical exploration of tough topics through a memorable lens.” — Booklist (starred review)
“A compelling read set in a richly developed world.” — School Library Journal (starred review)
“A lush, spirited story that explores the harm of colonialism, the power of friendship, and the depths of forgiveness and faith.” — Publishers Weekly
Kirkus Reviews
★ 2023-12-16
A bold girl’s secret family history and her care for an orphaned wolf pup lead her on a legendary quest.
After a Hunter from Malechia demands shelter at her home in Devia, 13-year-old Sona Kalpani learns a shocking secret. The Hunter’s suspicious gaze forces Sona’s Malech farmer father to reveal the truth: She’s the daughter of his late sister, who was killed by the Goldstorm that also claimed Sona’s real father, a Devan. The gem-seeking Malechs, who’ve colonized Devia for hundreds of years, have outlawed interracial marriage and banned music, which is how Devans wield magic and communicate with animals. Sona realizes she must act, since the Hunter is seeking the injured wolf she rescued, and her loving Ayah is ill from a Goldstorm. Sona sets off with Raag, a boy from a nearby village; Willa, her beloved gray pony; and Swara to journey to Mount Meru, which is sacred to Earth Goddess Bhoomi and is the source of amrita, “the golden nectar of life.” Raag is sure that Swara’s one of the five magical beasts from Devan legend, and Sona and Raag find connections to a prophecy that may free Devia. LaRocca’s intricate South Asian–inspired world is richly developed. The tightly written narrative is interspersed with folklore, letters, songs, and other writing that flesh out the troubled history and wounds of colonization that can only begin to be healed with truth-telling and love.
A fully immersive and enchanting fantasy that readers will get lost in. (map) (Fantasy. 8-12)
