First Test

Book 1 of the Protector of the Small Quartet

By: Tamora Pierce

Narrated by: Bernadette Dunne

In the medieval and fantastic realm of Tortall, Keladry of Mindelan (known as Kel) is the first girl to take advantage of the decree that permits females to train for knighthood. Up against the traditional hazing of pages and a grueling schedule, Kel faces only one real roadblock: Lord Wyldon, the training master of pages and squires. He is absolutely against girls becoming knights. So while he is forced to train her, Wyldon puts her on probation for one year. It is a trial period that no male page has ever had to endure and one that separates the good-natured Kel even more from her fellow trainees during the tough first year. But Kel is not a girl to underestimate, as everyone is about to find out.©1999 Tamora Pierce (P)2007 Random House, Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

Critic reviews

"A splendidly rousing feast." ( Booklist)
"This is smooth storytelling and a satisfying read." ( School Library Journal)

Loved it

I loved all the charactors in the book. Found myself listening to it twice because I tend to miss areas while working. I purchased the second in the series as soon as I was done, and I'm now on the forth in the series.

Awesome

I love this story and could read it (and have) over and over again. The reader isn't my favorite, but she does an acceptable job.

engaging, enjoyable listen

well written story, reader is engaging. looking forward to the next book in the series.

Lovely Next Tortall Story

If you loved Tamora Pierce's other novels set in the Tortall universe, this is a wonderful addition. Kel is truly one of those characters that have the strength and moral compass to reach her dreams, and this first part of her journey is full of fun and characters old and new. The narrator is great and has a good pace for the story.

Tamora Pierce is Amazing

This book is one I read in my childhood, and it completely shaped who I am today. The audiobook is no disappointment, and I am stunned at how well I remember everything that happened 13 years later. Tamora Pierce’s series may be from the 80’s and 90’s, and the books may be set in medieval times, but the topics she addresses are as modern and relevant as ever. These books encouraged me and helped me deal with bullying as a youth, and as an adult I continue to be reminded of my own ability to overcome adversity. Thank you Tammy for producing novels that are such a delight and stir such power from within your readers. I can’t wait to devour the rest of this series on the long roadtrip we are on!

First Test

I usually hate these kinds of stories, but this one is really fantastic. It mixes in realism and fantasy perfectly. The performance was great and I can't wait to start on the next one in the series.

character development

The stories work because you get to know the characters and can like and dislike their good and bad

Great Book, strong female lead, ok narrator

I love all of Tamora Pierce's books and have for many years. I liked the narrators for her other books better than the one for this book. She did grow on me though.

Perfect

Loved this book since I was in grade school and the performance from the reader was well done

Kel is my favorite heroine of Tortall

Amazing book about working for your dreams no matter the obstacles. #genderdiversity #socialjustice #tagsgiving #sweepstakes