Firefly Island

Fans of gentler fantasy will welcome Arenson's second novel (after Psalm of the Desert Lion). In a land divided among four people, each with their own magic-Stonesons, who control stone; Esiren, who share thoughts; Helands, who have the power of healing; and Forestfolk, who emulate beasts-the servant girl Aeolia discovers she's the Esiren Firechild, who embodies Esiren magic and alone can harm the Stoneson ruler, Sinther. Some not terribly realistic battle scenes may be too bloody for younger readers, but those who enjoy such traditional fantasy devices as love at first sight and princes raised as commoners will be rewarded.