The Good Hawk by Joseph Elliott
Published by Walker Books US on January 21, 2020
ISBN: 9781536207187
Pages: 368
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

This fantasy is told in two voices. Agatha, the heroine, is fifteen and has Down Syndrome. Her job in the clan as a “Hawk” is to guard their wall and watch for attackers. She is very proud of her role. Jaime is also fifteen and an “Angler.” He does not enjoy his position and would rather build boats than be on them. Their clan lives on the Isle of Skye. The book is divided into three parts: Skye, Scotia, and Norveg. When disaster strikes their clan circumstances dictate that Agatha and Jaime must cross Scotia to Norveg to rescue their people. Agatha has the gift of communicating with animals including her pet vole, Highland bulls, and more. Part of the plot also deals with the plague. This well written fantasy is action packed, full of mystery, has touches of humor, and magic. Having the story told in two voices adds much to the depth of the characters and the interpretation of what takes place in the story. This is the first in the Shadow Skye trilogy. I highly recommend it for ages 12 and up. Reviewed by Kris Zuidema, retired school librarian, Standish