Moribito II: Guardian of the Darkness by Nahoko Uehashi (Moribtio, Book 2)

Synopsis: Balsa returns to her native Kanbal to clear the name of Jiguro, her dear mentor, who saved her life when she was six years old. But what should be a visit of truth and reconciliation becomes a fight for her life when she learns that Jiguro had been a member of King Rogsam's personal bodyguard. After Jiguro fled Kanbal with her, Rogsam sent the other bodyguards after them one by one--Jiguro's best friends, whom he had to kill to protect Balsa. Now, with the help of two Kanbalese children, Balsa must unwind the conspiracy surrounding Jiguro and the mystery of the Guardians of the Dark. (from the online description)

Review: As with the first, this book explores the relationship between The Seen World and the Spirit World. Balsa returns to her homeland, a barren, mountain region, seeped in poverty and dependent on the King’s relationship with the Spirit world for survival.

Balsa, weary after years away and burden by guilt, is determined to return, to make amends and lay to rest the spirit of her mentor.

The beauty of this story is in how Balsa fights for the freedom of her soul and her people. Told with a realist sorrow and depth, but never straying in to maudlin prose, the reader walks with Balsa as she faces her greatest fear.

Interwoven with that is the story of a young man and his courage and his growth as a person. There is plenty of action, adventure, mystery, and humor.

I would highly recommend this book. In particularly, it would be excellent for late elementary age children, and any looking to read a story told by a non-western female author. 

Bookmarks: 4.5 of 5

Awards: None

ISBN: 978-0-545-10295-7
Year Published: 1999 (English Trans. 2009)
Date Finished: 8-13-2018
Pages: 259