The Forgotten Warrior by Kathi Oram Peterson is an LDS fiction book written for young adults. The story is about Sydney Morgan, a black belt in karate, who is facing a difficult time in her life. Her mother is diagnosed with breast cancer, and her father hasn’t been in the picture in years. She is worried about taking care of her mom, and her younger sister who is disabled, when suddenly she finds herself transported back in time. She quickly learns that she has traveled back to the time of Helaman and the Stripling Warriors. After defending herself against accusations that she is a spy, she finds herself training the warriors to fight in battle.
Peterson weaves a world of excitement and realistic battle as she paints the scene of a desperate time. She talks openly about the faith that these young men had the effect that it had on them and those around them. Sydney learns throughout the story and her faith grows as well. Although the story is based in and around the story from the Book of Mormon, it is purely fictional.
This is a fun story. Peterson is an excellent storyteller, and I quickly found myself drawn in to the action. The excitement held me throughout the story, and I raced to the end. I was a trifle disappointed in the end of the story, because it is clear that it will be series, and I wished for a little bit more resolution than it ended with. At the same time I know that I will pick up the next book in the series when it comes out.
This book would make a great gift for adolescent readers both boys and girls. Additionally it may be a book that will help your reluctant reader start reading. The timing throughout the novel is great. It is a fun read.
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