Changing the World edited by Mercedes Lackey

Changing the World is an anthology (book of short stories) about the Heralds and Companions of Valdemar. This book includes stories about a young woman whose heart is broken when her love leaves to be a Herald... A young man who is so wrapped up in love that he can only be shown the truth by a Companion he refused to follow... A young herbalist who has to choose between her home and her duty to her country... and more! Companions are horse-like animals with silver hooves, soft blue eyes, and a dazzling white coat & mane. Heralds are people with gifts that are chosen to help the Companions. Some of the things Heralds do are solve family feuds that have grown too large, help towns in trouble and judge trials that will affect the whole country.

I thought a lot of these stories were great! In certain stories, the characters have a lot of depth. I think Mercedes Lackey (The creator of Valdemar) could have done a better job of editing. A handful of the stories weren't even about the Heralds and Companions. One of the stories called "For Want of a Nail" takes a lot of background to understand. Even though the stories weren't long, you got attached to the characters quickly. You felt their pain, happiness, and grief. Over all it was a very good book.

A few of the stories may require guidance for 13 and 14 year olds as they contain sexual innuendo or references. I didn't notice them, but my mother did and thought this should be mentioned. Most of the stories are quite safe though.

Reviewer Age:10

Reviewer City, State and Country: Rockwell City, IA USA