Tar and Bone

Thirteen-year-old Kamal has been waiting his whole life to join the An'chers - the giant ant riders who protect the desert town of Achten Tan. Despite his crooked leg, caused by a childhood injury, he's determined to succeed in the tryouts and become a cadet. To overcome the challenge, he strikes a bargain with an unexpected ally. D'or is a half-elf with a dark secret. When the young Tar-tule rider agrees to help Kamal, his hazardous magic and the enemies it attracts put both boys in harm's way.Now they must evade the fanatic high elves who see D'or's existence as an abomination, and the dread sorcerer C'naga, whose interest in the boy threatens to lead them down a dark path, from which there is no return. Tar and Bone is a standalone prequel story to Speechless in Achten Tan. It includes themes of friendship, coming of age, and making tough choices. Content is suitable for younger teen readers.