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Tiger's Quest: Tiger's Curse, Book 2
- By Colleen Houck
- Genre: Romance
Common Sense Media says
Romantic fantasy sequel has more violence than first book.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this sequel to Tiger's Curse also incudes a fairly innocent romance, but the violence intensifies this time around, with allusions to the horrific torture endured by one of the main characters. Readers will learn a lot as the author weaves various mythologies into the characters' quest. They will also see Kelsey grow up a lot and learn to put aside some of her insecurities. Of some concern are Kishan's continued advances toward Kelsey after being told that she's not interested. This may prompt a good discussion about what it means to respect boundaries.
What's the story?
When Kelsey returns to Oregon, she assumes that Ren will get over her fast. She starts college, taking courses to prepare for the next of the four tasks she must complete to break the Tiger's Curse. She makes it through one semester -- and even tries to date -- but when Ren shows up at her door, she's smitten all over again. But while Ren courts Kelsey afresh, danger lurks: Evil Lokesh is back and after a magic amulet in their possession. He finally tracks them down, capturing Ren and forcing Kelsey and Ren's brother, Kishan, to tackle the next task alone. After consulting the goddess Durga again, they set off to find spirit gates that contain a magical object. Trials include sirens, giant angry birds, and Kishan's continued advances as he opens up to Kelsey about his feelings for her.
Is it any good?
Twilight fans will notice a pattern here. Just like in New Moon, this sequel introduces Team Ren and Team Kishan. Only it seems the author was afraid to simply write out Ren for most of the book, so she crammed in 150 pretty boring pages at the beginning so that readers could experience Kelsey and Ren dating, reading love poems, making cookies, reading more love poems, and fighting off other unworthy suitors. Oh, and then reading more love poems.
When Ren is finally kidnapped, his torture begins -- but it's over for readers. Now the story gets going, with suspenseful moments involving both the central task and the development of the characters. The ancient mythology weaved into the story is really well done, and the complex relationship between Kelsey and Kishan is expertly explored (especially given the overdramatic relationship between Kelsey and Ren at the book's beginning). As with the last book, readers will be left hanging and bit heartbroken at the end. This is sure to keep them anticipating the next installment.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about popular love stories. What makes a good romance? Is there always lots of adversity? Danger? Jealousy? How do these stories shape our expectations of love?
Do you think this book will be as popular as Tiger's Curse, or do you think readers will be disappointed that, like in the second Twilight book, the romantic lead is absent for much of the book?
What do you think about Kishan and Kelsey's relationship? Do you think Kishan should be "stealing kisses" against her wishes? Can you think of other "romantic" books or movies where lines are similarly crossed?
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AGE
Better than the first, prepares for the third one.
Tiger's Quest was better than Tiger's Curse, the first of a series. The great things about Quest were the plot devices. Each chapter was more exciting than the last one. The characters are better devoloped in this one. Like Twilight, New Moon, who get to know the third point of the love triangle more. The action in Quest was a whole lot better than the first, and Kishan gets his chance of fame. The ending is surprising, and opens is right up for the next read. I am excited to find out how they solve the whole -SPOILER- memory thing for Ren. -END SPOILER- The things to be aware about this book. THE ACTION: A character is tortured, after being kidnapped. There is a magic power that one person uses as a weapon, alongside with guns, daggers, and tranquilizer guns, knives, hands, the like. Also, metal birds attack the heroes, leaving cuts, and bruises. SEXUAL BEHAVIOR: Some sexual jokes are said (pretty funny) and noted. Sirens seduce the main characters with kisses, and back rubs. There are more kisses in this one than Curse. LANGUAGE: None, except H***. MESSAGES: All are good, none are bad or suggestive. Kelsey is head strong, and never gives up. She fights for what she believes in. A good role model for readers including girls, and guys, (like me.) This book can be fun for any reader, it is not just for girls. I am a guy and I enjoy these books. EDUCATIONAL: You learn about India, and its myths, and religion. Like the Percy Jackson books, this is education made fun. Enjoy.
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Kid, 12 years old
October 26, 2011
AGE
AWSOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
it was better than twilight or even shiver and i love absulutley love those books so read it and PS. Team Kishan dont fight u know u r
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| Author: | Colleen Houck |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Romance |
| Publisher: | Sterling Publishing |
| Publication date: | June 7, 2011 |
| Number of pages: | 496 |
| Hardcover price: | $17.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 12 - 17 |
| Read aloud: | 12 |
| Read alone: | 12 |
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