Splinter & Ash (Splinter & Ash #1)

After years away, 12-year-old Princess Adelisa of Calinor--Ash to her friends--returns home to the kingdom's capitol of Kestrel's Haven. There, Ash, who walks with a cane and uses braces to support her joints, feels unwelcome by those who perceive her as "fragile and unfit." Then she meets Splinter, who believes that her dreams of becoming a squire are forfeit because she's "not a boy" ("But you're not a girl, either," Ash retorts). Ash sponsors her for squire training in what the princess deems a "simple solution." Still, the duo contends with hostility and scorn from all sides, including from Ash's older brother, Prince Lucen. But when Ash is kidnapped by the kingdom's enemies, Splinter will do anything to rescue her--if Ash doesn't save herself first. In this thrilling trilogy opener, Nijkamp (Ink Girls) assuredly introduces an intersectionally diverse cast of complex and fiercely resourceful characters who must navigate threats both physical and social. With Ash's kindness and intelligence, and Splinter's indomitable knightly spirit, the two make an ideal partnership and a winning addition to boundary-defying heroines like Alanna of Trebond and Sir Callie. Ash and Splinter are depicted on the cover with pale skin. Ages 8-12. Agents: Suzie Townsend and Sophia M. Ramos, New Leaf Literary. (Sept.)

Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Eleven-year-old Princess Adelisa (Ash) has returned to Kestrel City after six years living with relatives, only to find she is an outsider. Not only does she suffer from an illness similar to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, but her 13-year-old brother Lucen treats her contemptuously, as do many nobles. A chance meeting at an evening party brings Ash and Splinter together. Splinter describes herself as neither a boy nor a girl and uses she/her pronouns. Splinter becomes a squire while Ash gains a companion and guard. When conflict with a neighboring kingdom flares, Ash is kidnapped, and Splinter and Lucen are forced into an acrimonious partnership to rescue her. Ash and her brother are simply described as brunettes, while minor characters are described with darker skin tones. Nijkamp's story builds from an inauspicious beginning into an enjoyable fantasy adventure with plucky characters. While the introductory scenery descriptions are uninspiring, the story picks up after Splinter and Ash meet, and the alternating scenes of Ash's captivity and Splinter and Lucen's pursuit are well-paced. Ash's disability and Splinter's gender identity are smoothly integrated into the story. Nijkamp has surprises for readers along the way, making the second half of the book the most exciting portion. VERDICT Encourage readers to push through early chapters for a character-driven fantasy series opener with tons of adventure. Recommended for most collections, especially those serving fans of Jennifer Nielsen or Kate O'Hearn.--Caitlin Augusta

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Marieke Nijkamp's Splinter & Ash is an action-packed adventure about bravery, friendship, and the universal quest for acceptance, sure to stir young readers' hearts. Celebrating the power of queer and disabled heroes, this novel shines as an example of inclusive middle-grade. The start of a bold new fantasy trilogy, Splinter & Ash introduces us to a world where every child, irrespective of who they are, can wield the sword of a hero and stand tall in the face of adversity. Nijkamp invites all to discover their inner strength and the boundless potential to forge their own legends." — Soman Chainani, author of The School for Good and Evil

"Splinter & Ash is an inviting fairytale with my favorite sort of characters, the kind who rise up in the face of challenges, and who follow their hearts no matter where they lead. Settle into your comfiest chair; you won't want to leave." — Stacey Lee, New York Times-bestselling author of Reese's Book Club pick The Downstairs Girl

"An exciting, twisty story packed with everything you want from a fantasy adventure: hidden tunnels, long-buried secrets, dastardly plots, and, best of all, irresistible protagonists who uncover it all. I loved watching Splinter and Ash, two ostensible misfits, claim their space in a world that doesn't know what to do with them. A wonderful read, full of depth and heart." — Anne Ursu, author of Not Quite a Ghost

"Visit Nijkamp's enchanting city of Kestrel's Haven, and be transported! Intrigue, danger, and pernicious plots abound in the kingdom of Calinor. But it's the brave, fierce, and deeply kind Splinter and Ash, unlikely squire and unconquerable princess, whose friendship defies labels and whose adventures make Splinter & Ash an essential middle grade fantasy, where all readers will find heroes to love and to cheer!" — Alex London, author of Battle Dragons and The Princess Protection Program

"An inspiring, fast-paced adventure with an abundance of heart. Readers will fall in love with Splinter and Ash and wish they could be best friends with them—and hope for more of their stories in the future." — Shannon Messenger, New York Times-bestselling author of the Keeper of the Lost Cities series

"A thrilling fantasy adventure full of exciting swordplay, dangerous spycraft, cleverness, and courage, with characters I loved. I'm hoping for many more stories in this world!" — Stephanie Burgis, author of The Raven Heir and The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart

"Every kid deserves to see themselves as princesses or knights or whatever role they wish to play, and Nijkamp carves out the space for them to do so. Thoughtful, inclusive, and an outright joy, Splinter & Ash shines; a new classic that belongs on the shelves of every fantasy reader." — Nicole Melleby, author of Hurricane Season and co-editor of This Is Our Rainbow

"Nijkamp weaves dual narratives that deftly explore the intersections of identity, disability, and allyship in Splinter & Ash, a remarkable fantasy that is sure to become an instant classic. I wish I could live in a world where characters like Splinter, Ash, and Lucen exist, where internal biases about gender and disability are challenged and people learn to empathize with others and celebrate differences. Splinter & Ash is a rare gem: a shining example of a fantasy novel that will engage readers of any age." — A. J. Sass, award winning author of Ellen Outside the Lines and Ana on the Edge

"Splinter & Ash is a heartfelt and gorgeously woven story that expertly blends inclusivity with a fantastical world readers will want to return to again and again. Splinter and Ash are characters to laugh with, bond with, and demand justice for. Nijkamp has written a stupendous adventure sure to become a firm favorite with readers." — L. D. Lapinski, bestselling author of Jamie and the Strangeworlds Travel Agency series