Sona and the Golden Beasts

This book is a finalist for a 2024 Cybils Book Award in Elementary/Middle-Grade Speculative Fiction.
What worked:
The story is set in a world of prejudice after the Malech armies invaded and took over Devia. It’s reminiscent of real-world countries, including the United States, that have invaded countries and native lands to claim abundant resources. Skin color has often identified racial groups throughout history and ear color in this book distinguishes the oppressed Devans from the greedy, ruthless Malechs. Readers can sympathize with the plight of the Devans as they’re over-taxed, overworked, and victims of unfair laws. The Malechs hoard the bountiful precious gems found in Devia and they take whatever they want. Devans have few rights and they’re treated as lesser people.
Early in the book, Sona learns she is the daughter of a Malech father and a Devan mother. Her father kept this secret because society looked down on mixed-race children. Neither the Malechs nor the Devan will accept them so Sona must never tell anyone else about her parentage. She travels with a boy named Raag across the lands to find a remedy for her grandmother. Sona meets a Malech Hunter who’s trying to kill all five of the sacred Devan beasts and she fears for the safety of a gold-eared cub she’s nursing back to health. She also starts to hear stories of a sixth sacred beast that will save them all but no one knows what kind of creature it might be. The mystery of this sixth sacred beast and the looming danger of the Hunter will keep readers captivated.
Sona has a special connection to animals that confuses Raag. She nurses a horse back to health and sings and talks to her as if the horse understands. She hears the music of the animals and can sense when Goldstorms are approaching. Raag’s never met anyone who survived being caught outside in a Goldstorm for as long as Sona did. Sona’s love, kindness, and willingness to forgive are her greatest attributes and she’s rewarded in the end. It’s nice to see such a positive character receive positive results for her efforts. Sona’s optimistic outlook is challenged as the plot nears its climax but her character stays true to what’s important.
What didn’t work as well:
Between each chapter, the author presents letters, articles, and song lyrics that have relevance to what’s happening in the plot. Some writings are dated at various times, some recent and some years in the past, and come from different sources. Readers must consider the source, time, and relevance of each writing before they continue the story. These inserts aren’t a big problem but some don’t add to the story and could be omitted.
The final verdict:
Sona’s endearing character and her love for all living creatures guide this touching story. The Hunter, Malechs, and Goldstorms present constant obstacles on her quest but her kind heart overcomes them all. I highly recommend you give this book a shot.