Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)"Beyond the Mask" is the 3rd book in David Ward's "Grassland Trilogy" (also referred to ask "The Mask" trilogy). The last installment of Ward's series includes a few unique features not seen in his earlier two books.
Perhaps the main difference between this book and Ward's previous books is the setting. "Beyond the Mask" is primarily set in the colder temperatures of the north. Early in the novel, the characters are in search of Pippa's (northern) homeland, which they soon find. This allows Ward to introduce new characters, such as Pippa's father, and new villains. As a reader, I found this to be welcome variety - while Pippa's father adds some depth to the cast of characters, I was also relieved to have a villain different (and in addition to) the Spears.
The plot was intriguing, full of unexpected twists and turns. In many ways, this book reminded me of "The Hunger Games" series. That is, a dominant government abuses its powers and exacts needless punishment on its settlements. The inhabitants of these settlements decide it's time to rise up against the government in an attempt to obtain a sense of security. Corki, Pippa, and Thief are compelling, well-developed characters that work well in this scenario.
While the plot is this novel's strong point, it falls victim to a regular complaint I have with (particularly teen) series - the characters stop developing. While I felt like the first two books in the series allowed for the main characters to change and grow, I didn't get that from "Beyond the Mask". Thank goodness for the introduction of Pippa's father, else the fresh characterization in this novel would be stagnant.
As a high school English teacher, I can respect this book for what it's trying to do. It's an engaging, relatively simple read for preteens and teens. Is it a literary masterpiece? No. But it's a book that can get/keep kids reading. If they're reading this book, they've probably read the previous two in the series; "Beyond the Mask" will reward these readers with a satisfying sense of conclusion.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Beyond the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy: Book Three
In this dramatic conclusion to the Grasslands Trilogy, Corki, Pippa, and all their friends are reunited for a final fight to determine the future of Grassland. After escaping the mountains of Grassland, where Corki and Pippa and their friends were slaves and soldiers, the fugitives finally found a new life, and are seemingly safe at last. But as the former slaves explore new lands to the north, they discover that cruelty and injustice are not only found in Grassland, and that the people they visit may need their help. Grassland, too, may need assistance. When an appeal from an old friend reaches Corki and Pippa in their travels, will they have the courage to do what's right for their old land, despite its cruel history? What will it cost them to change Grassland for the better?
Click here for more information about Beyond the Mask: The Grassland Trilogy: Book Three
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