Phoenix Rising #1: Elissa's Quest (Phoenix Rising Trilogy) (Hardcover)

~ Erica Verrillo (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Thirteen-year-old Elissa, an orphan of High Crossing, hides her ability to speak to animals and daydreams about finding her unknown father. When he suddenly appears to take her away, the adolescent's rosy dreams of a fond parent vanish; Elissa learns that she is the princess of Castlemar and that her father plans to trade her to a desert warlord in a diplomatic exchange. In the Citadel of the Khan, Elissa struggles for control of her destiny and of her kingdom. Despite conventional plot elements, Verillo's storytelling moves right along, buoyed by humorous exchanges with talking beasts, gripping escape scenes, and a tense, dramatic conclusion. Elissa's coming-of-age experiences include the arrival of her first menstrual period—an element not commonly seen in the fantasy genre. A sympathetic heroine and well-placed hints about her fate will build readers' anticipation for the next installment in the Phoenix Rising trilogy. Rutan, Lynn

Product Description

THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD ELISSA LEADS a solitary life. She knows nothing of her parents—only that her mother is dead. Her caretaker, Nana, keeps her father's identity a secret from her. Meanwhile Elissa carries her own secret—the people of the valley must not know that she has the gift of speaking to animals. For now she is just a healer's apprentice in peaceful High Crossing, but Elissa dreams of a more exciting life, and of, one day, finding her father.

When an unexpected royal guest arrives at the Manor, Elissa's life changes forever. She leaves home with him, only to discover that she's become a pawn in a battle for his kingdom. Accompanied by her dear donkey, Gertrude, she is delivered to the evil Khan. Elissa's quest for freedom and the truth about her past leads to questions about the future. Is she the key to a prophecy—the prophecy of the Phoenix—that everyone seems to know about, except her?

In Book One of the Phoenix Rising trilogy, new author Erica Verrillo has crafted a classic—and often humorous—fantasy adventure with a strong, unwitting heroine.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers (June 26, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0375839461
• ISBN-13: 978-0375839467
• Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 5.7 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #214,897 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A "page turner!!", July 13, 2007

By	Katharine A. Cartwright - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This book is a real "page turner!" Verrillo's unique and creative writing style enhances the reader's experience through a masterfully woven tale connected by threads of intrigue, humor, and colorful descriptions. Although the target audience may be adolescent girls, adults will enjoy this just as much. I can't wait to read the next two books in this trilogy. Kudos to the author! Keep them coming.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Following Elissa As She Follows Her Fate, July 20, 2007

By	River Reader "YA Librarian" (Western Massachusetts) - See all my reviews

Erica Verrillo has created an immensely evocative landscape with splendid characters in the story "Elissa's Quest". How could we not embrace "a girl who knew her own mind even if she did not always choose to speak it". Elissa is humble yet brave, and certainly up to the task given her as she finds that, "he who will not follow the fates will be dragged by them". She has a "gift" which she uses to great advantage with each step she takes on her journey involving intrigue and self discovery. Elissa learns the true history of her family, and of the larger geographical domain where she is born when the time comes for her to enter into the real world of politics, treachery, and the abuse of power. Add to this mix the impending threat of environmental change, talking animals, and courageous characters that inspire hope for the perception of human potential.
In this tale we follow Elissa as she is thrust into a situation of change not unlike the world we know. She experiences her own biological changes, participates in rites of initiation, and most importantly, learns how to use her gifts in a world that encompasses diverse cultures, and spiritualities beyond her doorstep where people are reduced to bargaining chips. She creates alliances with the animals, the Ankaa, Maya of the Water People, and the beautiful Blue People. How she resolves conflict is admirable. She discovers her truth, the importance of the healers, the healing powers of the lake, and something about wisdom.
Verrillo's writing is spiced with humor, the animal's perspectives are right on, and the maxims useful to reflect on. The vividly eloquent passages provide the perfect vehicle for travel through Elissa's world. The first book of the Phoenix Rising Trilogy is a very good story.

Now I am left with some questions:

Will we meet the Northern People?
Who is the Ancient One?
Will Elissa's father come though for her?
Does Ralph have something for Gertrude?
What about those emerald green eyes that attract moths at dusk?

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Elissa, Girl Hero, July 11, 2007

By	Jane A. Johnson (Austin, TX USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Elissa's Quest is a very entertaining novel with mystery, danger, magic, humor, and strong female characters. In short, the orphaned Elissa learns her true identity, becomes a woman and discovers her inner wisdom. Elissa does not seek adventure, but when it comes to her in the form of travels through forest and desert, kidnapping, escape, unexpected alliances and exotic settings, she rises to each occasion. Elissa's story emphasizes the values of kindness and respect, as well as strength and resourcefulness. Women are depicted as powerful, valuable members of their communities. This book would make a lovely gift for girls around ages 11-14. I can't wait for the next book in the trilogy!