Alysa of the Fields

The Tellings of Xunar-Kun #1

by Tina Field Howe

Hidden deep in the mountains of planet Xunar-kun, the Field Folk clan believed themselves to be the only people, other than the distant Trailmen, to inhabit their war-torn world. They were wrong. While discovering her individuality, Alysa — a young woman of the Field Folk — risks all to save her people from certain peril. She reveals long-hidden truths that will reunite long-separated tribes.

The unabridged audio book has won Mom’s Choice, Reader’s Choice, and Reader Views awards

320 pages, Paperback

First published September 26, 2006

About the author

Tina Field Howe has been writing short stories, novels, and screenplays for many years. She lives in a quiet village amongst the rolling hills of the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York.

Reviews

[R. L. Gemmill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heart-warming, coming-of-age tale of a young woman, Alysa, who is one of the Field Folk, a group of people featured in this book. Her society lives by strict rules and traditions, and has thrived for hundreds of years without encountering enemies. They trade their mostly agricultural goods with the Trailmen, who are hunters and have their own ways of doing things. Alysa has inherited her father’s think-out-of-the-box attitude, which eventually puts her in direct conflict with community leaders. But when a series of unexplainable abductions forces the Folk to defend themselves—something they’ve never had to do—Alysa is the only one with a plan to save them. The story is loaded with rich description and memorable characters. When the trouble starts, you may find yourself unable to put the book down because you care so much about what happens to these people. In my opinion Alysa of the Fields is a strong fantasy story and a very good read!
R.L. Gemmill, Author of The Demon Conspiracy Series

[Robin Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book and just purchased the second one because the first was so good. This author is a mistress of words that paints a picture of a land and people that may or may not be fantasy. The storyline is gentle yet poignant and moves at a perfect pace to be calming while carrying a huge message. Actually, a ton of messages. The entire story could be a metaphor for what is happening in the world today and how we SHOULD be handling our affairs like the Field Folk and Trailsmen did in the book. I thought I would read bits and pieces over a week or two, but found myself glued to the screen, reading it in two days. (for me that is a record). The world that is created has it's own terms, animals, places and philosophy of life. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy and indulge yourself into this beautiful fantasy, that leaves you wanting more. Keep 'um coming, Tina Field Howe. (PS. go check out her video on the book. It is also stunning)

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read books intended for all ages, since I am a grandmother, a reading tutor, a retired teacher, and just plain omnivorous reader!

Though I started "Alysa of the Fields" with the intention of recommending to my granddaughter, I was quickly captivated by the people and world of Xunar-kun. I would recommend to anyone - share the journey and heroism of Alysa, who does not fit the mold set by her society.

As the author says "There is a champion inside all of us." You'll cheer for Alysa and journey with her as she attempts to bring change to her very old, very set-in-their-ways Field Folk...with the help of the rambunctious and fascinating Trailmen. Especially the young man her age... :)

MOST engaging and enjoyable for all, would particularly recommend for young women 10-18.