  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 08/01/2009 Gr 3–6— As the people of Boston go about their business unaware, the Feathered Alliance—consisting of sparrows, swallows, pigeons, and other city birds—prepares for battle. The raptors, who previously occupied the adjacent woods, have been routed by clearing of the land. Now they seek to take over the city, and their superior size and might assure their victory. When Ragtag, a small and insignificant swallow, stumbles onto an eagle that is tangled in ropes and sets him free, the bird of prey promises to stand with the Feathered Alliance. But then he disappears, and Ragtag must find a way to prove to his friends that he was not lying about the eagle. In the vein of Erin Hunter's "Warriors" series (HarperCollins) and Kathryn Lasky's "Guardians of Ga'Hoole" (Scholastic), this novel opens up the world of these lively feathered creatures and their way of life. The story line moves quickly, making it a good choice for reluctant readers. The qualities of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice are themes explored as Ragtag and his friends battle for their lives and homes. An enjoyable read that could easily become a series.—Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA - Copyright 2009 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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