The Warrior's Daughter.

Gregory Bryan is a member of the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg.

With The Warrior’s Daughter, Holly Bennett has turned her storytelling talents to the mythology of ancient Ireland. The warrior of the title is the mighty Cuchulainn, one of the fiercest of all opponents. The story’s protagonist is Cuchulainn’s daughter, Luaine. Speaking in the first person, Luaine relates the details of her parents’ tragic deaths and the struggle that she then endures finding her way in life without the guiding influence of her mother and father.

Despite their mythical origins, Bennett’s characters resonate with a reality that is intriguing and believable. Mighty Cuchulainn is at once a fierce scourge to his enemies, yet a loving and committed father and husband. Luaine’s mother, Emer, is a regal queen, yet a doting wife. Luaine is herself full of confidence borne of her royal parentage, yet filled with the uncertainties of youth. The multidimensional nature of Bennett’s characters is one strength in a book filled with strengths.

At book’s end a brief character sketch and pronunciation guide is a great aid in keeping everyone straight and in helping the reader to enjoy the lyrical beauty of the Irish names. This book will captivate young adult readers with an interest in Ireland and/or mythology. Highly recommended.