Booktalk #1

This incredible story is riddled with figurative language and the intricate balance of familial relationships. The basic story is made up of myth, imagination and a striking balance of realism about the powerful Capill Usice (carnivorous horses). Every November the sleepy island of Thisby comes alive when visitors and locals are consumed by the races on the beach. Puck and her brothers are struggling to keep themselves afloat financially after their parents are killed in the Scorpio Races. In order to hopefully raise some money and keep their house, Puck, the first women ever, agrees to race her horse against the vicious capill usice. Steifvater blends these amazing myths, powerful horses and family bonds to create a fascinating story. (Candace Skoff for Colorado Blue Spruce Award, 2013)

Booktalk #2

Every November on the misty island of Thisby, riders compete in the Scorpio Races, a dangerous contest to see who can survive training and racing the island’s mythical and violent water horses.  Puck Connolly was never meant to participate in the races, but when her family’s future becomes dependent on the money she could win, she decides she will be the first girl ever to take part.  Puck turns to nineteen-year-old Sean Kendrick, a natural rider and the race’s defending champion, for help.  Sean and Puck strike up an unlikely friendship, and they grow closer even though both of their futures depend on the outcome of the deadly race.  Ultimately, there can be only one winner. 
(Booktalk by the Sequoya Youth Book Award committee, 2014)