The Song of All

February 15, 2018

The immortal Japmea and the mortal Piijkij have been deadly enemies for generations. After many years of battle, Irjan is finally ready to stay home with his beloved wife, Sohja, and their newborn son. But, sadly, peace is short-lived when Sohja is killed by roving Japmea warriors and Irjan is forced to flee with his child. Early in his journey he comes across Aillun, a Japmea woman who has just lost her protector and is giving birth in the woods. Her death forces Irjan to assume responsibility for both infants until he is captured by the Japmea and his son is taken from him and returned to the Piijkij people. Slowly, irrevocably, the two children absorb the prejudices of their species. When they finally meet again, it is as bitter enemies. VERDICT Drawing on the traditions of Scandinavian indigenous cultures, Myers's debut novel (and series launch) offers an intriguing premise but is burdened with far too many characters and deviating plotlines. However, if readers can wade through the first 200 pages, they will be rewarded by a story of a man who overcomes terrible losses and acquires a rare nobility of character.--Jane Henriksen Baird, formerly at Anchorage P.L., AK

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2018
The situation might sound familiar: a warrior fleeing from his past has settled down in a quiet community only to have his family killed to coerce him to pick up arms again. Although the story may be one that has existed in many forms, Myers' debut is an interesting take. Written utilizing the languages of the Sami people, the real-life indigenous Scandinavian tribe, The Song of All feels like one part period work of fiction and one part epic fantasy. Irjan is a man haunted by a deed that made him a legend to many but a horror to himself. Unfortunately, the priests, who are the true power in the community, have discovered Irjan's bloody past and seek to recruit him for their own agenda under the guise of destiny and prophecy. This unique tale is woven from a wide variety of both familiar and new threads. For readers interested in Scandinavian literature, the Viking era, or epic fantasy.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)