If you love strong female characters, then you're probably a fan of Tamora Pierce. The SONG OF THE LIONESS is the first of the TORTALL books.
Book #1
ALANNA, THE FIRST ADVENTURE
This book starts off in an almost cliche manner as Alanna changes places with her twin. Thom goes off to be educated in magic, while she goes off to become a squire. In disguise, of course.
The book breaks out of the norm by taking a much more down to earth and honest approach to being a girl in man's country.
Word Count: 49,061
Page Count: 272
Accelerated Reading level: 4.5 / points: 7.0
AR quiz: 20708
Lexile: 690L
--sample pages available
Book #2
IN THE HAND OF THE GODDESS
Alanna
is finally Prince Jonathan's squire. And for the next four years she
will have to fight to live up to his trust. During this time, Alanna
participates in her first war, and falls in love --all while in
disguise! She also meets the Great Mother Goddess, and finds trouble
with Sir Jonathan's evil uncle, Duke Roger.
Word Count: 46,574
Page Count: 256
Accelerated Reading level: 5.2 / points: 7.0
AR quiz: 20709
Lexile: 750L
--sample pages available
Book #3
THE WOMAN WHO RIDES LIKE A MAN
Knighted! And Alana is off to the desert where she is taken captive by a desert tribe that means to test her to the limits.
Word Count: 51,569
Page Count: 272
Accelerated Reading level: 5.5 / points: 8.0
AR quiz: 20710
Lexile: 790L
--sample pages available
Book #4
LIONESS RAMPANT
Romance
finds the Lioness. Liam Ironarm, a Shang Dragon warrior garners her
attention. But the real story is back at home. Johnathan is now king.
And Duke Roger is plotting.
Word Count: 70,890
Page Count: 368
Accelerated Reading level: 5.0 / points: 11.0
AR quiz: 20711
Lexile: 720L
--sample pages available
compiled by Pam
