Moribito: Guardian of the Spiritby Nahoko Uehashi
Reading level: Grades 5 and up
Translated from Japanese, this is an action-packed fantasy set in New Yogo, a country very similar to medieval Japan. When the main character Balsa, a wandering female warrior, saves the life of Prince Chagum, she is hired by his mother to become his bodyguard. Because it is discovered that the Prince has been possessed by a water demon, he has been targeted for assassination by his father, the Mikado of New Yogo. Not only must Balsa protect Prince Chagum from his father, but from otherworldly magic as well.
Fantasy lovers and adventure seekers will enjoy this fast-paced book that offers a setting not often seen in children’s fiction. Readers familiar with Japanese manga will fall right into the story, but the novel is written for anyone to enjoy. Balsa is an interesting character with a tragic past and love story. Boys should not be put off by the fact that the main character is a woman because there is enough action and swordplay to satisfy them as well. Balsa can definitely take care of herself and anyone who dares to become her enemy. This is not a book for girls or for boys but for anyone who wants to enjoy a good read. The novel was so popular in Japan it spawned nine book sequels, comic adaptations and a television series. Let's hope the rest of the series will be brought to the United States soon.
