Parents' Guide to

The Cadet of Tildor

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Girl trains as elite soldier in sword-slashing fantasy.

Book Alex Lidell Fantasy 2013
The Cadet of Tildor Poster Image

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

Having lost her mother and estranged from her father, Renee de Winter wants nothing more than to be an elite soldier-in-training at the Academy of Tildor. Her chances are jeopardized by the arrival of Korish Savoy, a hard-nosed commander reluctantly recalled from active duty, someone who seems unwilling to cut Renee the least bit of slack. The entire kingdom seethes with political turmoil, with two warring criminal families plotting to bring down the young, inexperienced Crown. Throw in some powerful and illegal magic, and Renee, Savoy and their compatriots are embroiled in conspiracy and warfare.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

THE CADET OF TILDOR sometimes feels as if it aspires to walk in the footsteps of George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones, minus the over-the-top sex and violence (and overwhelming page-count). Author Alex Lidell is not nearly as fluid or daring a writer as Martin, but who is on his or her first outing? The novel has plenty of straightforward action and adventure and features a resourceful female protagonist forced to make uncomfortable, often dangerous choices.The prose in The Cadet of Tildor might be occasionally awkward and the political machinations of the plot a tad murky, but the novel presents an interesting fantasy world populated by multidimensional characters.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about why readers are attracted to coming-of-age stories. Why do stories about schools, academies, and university hold such power?

  • What kinds of conflicts are common between teachers and students, no matter what the school setting or time period?

  • Why are some drugs illegal? How does the government decide which should be regulated?

Book Details

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