The Snows of Jaspre

The newest work by promising SF writer Caraker is more a short adult novel than YA. In its intriguing prologue, young Anders, part of a small isolated camp in the frozen tundra of Lumisland learns that, bestowed with supra-human power, he is destined to be his snowy world's savior. Almost a century later, a teacher/administrator, Morgan Farraday, and her family (including daughter Dee) arrive on the frozen planet during a time of upheaval. An artificial light reflector is to be installed, the second of two intended to provide the planet with heat. Not only will it change the planet's environment, but it will also destroy the mysterious colored snows that Anders's followers believe to be the source of psychic power. When Dee joins Anders, she becomes the center of the planet's power struggle. Is Anders's group a cult, or the hope of humanity? Caraker creates a fully realized world in her tale, but Morgan's story is simply not as interesting as Anders's might have proven. The most compelling aspects of this drama are linked to his group, and readers may wish that story had been explored more thoroughly. Ages 12-up. (Mar.)