The Emperor Mage

Name: The Emperor Mage
ISBN: 9780590558020

by Tamora Pierce

Sent on a peace mission to Carthak, Daine discovers her wild magic is growing in mysterious ways. She must use her unique powers to challenge a two-faced Emperor Mage, fight injustice, and protect her

About This Book

"The Emperor Mage" is the third installment in Tamora Pierce's "The Immortals" series, following Daine, a young woman with extraordinary wild magic. Sent to Carthak as part of a peace delegation, Daine finds herself embroiled in a complex political situation, deeply troubled by the empire's practice of slavery. Her powers evolve dramatically, allowing her to communicate with and even revive animals, including ancient dinosaurs. The story explores themes of justice, empathy, and the courage to stand up against corruption, as Daine confronts the enigmatic Emperor Ozorne and the powerful Graveyard Hag. This 334-page chapter book is best suited for middle-grade readers, approximately ages 10-14, who enjoy rich fantasy, strong female protagonists, and stories with moral depth. Parents should be aware of themes like slavery and mild peril.

Sent to Carthak as part of the Tortallan peace delegation, Daine finds herself in the middle of a sticky political situation. She doesn't like the Carthaki practice of keeping slaves, but it's not her place to say anything -- she's just there to heal the emperor's birds. It's extremely frustrating! What's more, her power has grown in a mysterious way. As the peace talks stall, Daine puzzles over Carthak's two-faced Emperor Ozorne. How can he be so caring with his birds and so cruel to his people? Daine is sure he's planning something. Daine must fight the powerful Emperor Mage, knowing that the safety and peace of the realm depend on stopping Ozorne's power-hungry schemes.

Concepts

Justice & Fairness Good vs. Evil Empathy & Kindness Self-Confidence & Identity Resilience & Perseverance Friendship & Loyalty Fear & Bravery Curiosity & Wonder Freedom & Independence Love & Family Anger & Frustration Being Different Growing Up Animals

Discussion Prompts

Daine is very upset by the practice of slavery in Carthak. What would you do if you saw something you knew was wrong, but felt like you couldn't speak up?

Daine gains a new, powerful, but unsettling ability to revive the dead. How does she feel about this power, and how does she choose to use it or not use it?

Emperor Ozorne is kind to his birds but cruel to his people. What does this tell you about his character? Can someone be good in one way and bad in another?

Numair pretends to die to trick Ozorne. Do you think this was a good plan? When is it okay to deceive someone, even for a good cause?

External Reviews