by Maggie Stiefvater
October 2011
Scholastic Press
Some race to win. Others race to survive.
I *think* I may have just read a standalone young adult book. Hallelujah! There's something so old school about a book that can be begun and subsequently wrapped up completely in one volume. In a departure from werewolves, but not from folklore, Stiefvater weaves a magical tale based on water horses, which can be found in Irish and Scottish mythology. Every November, the small island of Thisby that Puck Connolly and Sean Kendrick call home holds the Scorpio Races in which riders compete on the backs of these dangerous horses. Puck never wanted to race, but due to unforeseeable family circumstances and her own stubbornness she is soon the first girl to ever enter. Sean, on the other hand, is an undefeated champion of the races, and has been for six years. Both must fight against prejudice, local hostility, and their growing feelings for one another in order to win the race and acquire the prize money they need to save that which is most precious to each. This is a truly unique fantasy with a heady and haunting atmosphere that will appeal to horse lovers and mythology buffs alike.
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