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First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1)
First Test - Protector of the Small, Bk 1
Author: Tamora Pierce
When Alanna became the King's Champion, it was decided that girls would henceforth be allowed to train for the knighthood. But ten years have passed, and no girls have come forward. Now, however, someone is about to change all that. Her name is Kel. In this first book in a new series from popular children's fantasy writer Tamora Pierce, ...  more »
ISBN-13: 9780679889144
ISBN-10: 0679889140
Publication Date: 6/7/1999
Pages: 224
Reading Level: Ages 9-12
Rating:
  • Currently 4.5/5 Stars.
 36

4.5 stars, based on 36 ratings
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Book Type: Hardcover
Other Versions: Paperback
Members Wishing: 2
Reviews: Member | Amazon | Write a Review

Top Member Book Reviews

VickyJo avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 49 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
This is the first book in Pierce's "Protector of the Small" quartet. Kel is 10 years old, and ready to begin training to become a knight, inspired by her hero Alanna. (Alanna's story is told in the "Song of the Lioness" quartet.)

Unlike Alanna, who hid the fact that she was a girl while she went through the eight-year training cycle, Kel is the first girl to openly train for knighthood. She faces hardship, prejudice, but earns respect as she works hard to reach her goal.

I liked this quartet better than "Song of the Lioness." It seemed richer, better written, as if Ms. Pierce really hit her stride with this series. I love the fact that Kel is stubborn, determined, and modest. She is a great role model!
reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 287 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Once again I'm happy to be back in Tortall. A bit disappointed that Alanna doesn't get a more active role, but this is Kel's book after all. And it was a bit lacking in suspense (about whether or not Kel would get to return for a second year) since there are three books that come after this one. But the book was a quick read and a pleasant distraction from studies.
reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 93 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Even though this series is written with young teens in mind I loved it. My youngest daughter also thoroughly enjoyed this book, and the three others in the series. Now we are both big fans of Tamora Pierce.
reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 50 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Love the author and love the series!
daedelys avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 1218 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is another series about a heroine, Kel, who encounters the typical sexism showed by males towards females when she first begins her training to become a knight. Later, after being bullied herself, she makes it her business to deal with those who pick on others when she feels that the hazing has gone too far with fellow students.

It's a wonderful story about a girl who finds her way and doesn't take crap but does what she needs in order to succeed despite the obstacles in her way.
Read All 18 Book Reviews of "First Test Protector of the Small Bk 1"

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reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on
Very good read!
gmajackie avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 20 more book reviews
Excellent read for all. Kel is a wonderful example for our young ladies. Enjoyed the entire series.
kacey14 avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 47 more book reviews
This was my first foray into Tamora Pierce's work, but I don't think it will be my last. I liked the fact the Keladry was a successful female in an all male environment and though she suffered through some serious hazing, she conquered it without using magic. She used here wits, fortitude and friendliness to form alliances in many surprising areas.

This if the first book in the series. I was reading it to see if it would be appropriate for my 12 year-old niece that really likes the fantasy genre. I think it would be perfect for her. (If she hasn't already read it that is...) I'm going to have to check out the second book in the series now.

I only gave it 4 stars because for me while the story was engaging and I like it, it was geared toward a younger audience and wasn't a really show stopping read for me.
reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
This is a terrific book for young adults, especially girls. It shows that even through the toughest of times if you keep trying your best, you will be able to make a difference and accomplish your goals.
johnwoodworth avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
I enjoyed this book alot and I am a grandfather. This is a great book for 10 year old girls.
ngriff87 avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on
can't wait to be able to read the next one. I love Tamora Pierce as a wrighter all her characters jump off the pages of her books
barbsis avatar reviewed First Test (Protector of the Small, Bk 1) on + 1076 more book reviews
Very similar concept to Alanna. Keladry wants to be a knight and must endore all the taunting and tricks of the boys. Alanna The First Adventure was a much better book.


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