SWORDBIRD

After generations of peaceful coexistence, the blue jays and cardinals are at war. Before they annihilate each other, they discover that a power-hungry hawk has created disharmony to enslave the birds and gain control of the forest. Only Swordbird can restore peace to the forest. Nancy Yi Fan was in fifth grade when, inspired by a vivid dream and her conflicted feelings after 9/11, she wrote this fantasy. Colleen Delany narrates this tale of war and peace, suspicion and trust, cowardliness and bravery. Her narration is concise but lacks life. Battles sound matter-of-fact rather than exciting. Budding young authors may especially enjoy the interview in which Fan discusses her inspiration and plan for getting published. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 07]