Book Review: ‘Jaguar Warrior’, Sandy Fussell, Walker Books, ISBN 978 1 921529 29 0

Atl (pronounced Ay-tel) is a slave in the temple of the Serpent-Sun god in the ancient city of Mexica. Mexica we are told in the brief introduction, is the term that refers to the people we know as the Aztecs and their civilisation.

Atl is well thought of by the chief priest Ichtaca (Ik-tark-a) and yet despite, or perhaps because of this he lies trapped in a box awaiting his death as a sacrificial offering to the Serpent-God.

Atl doesn’t understand why he has been chosen for death and is determined to fight like the mighty jaguar when the lid of the box is lifted.

Plans change and Atl is suddenly released in order to run to Purepecha to seek help and thereby save the people of Mexica from the invading ‘pale lords.’

Pursued by his nemesis Huemec, the Captain of the Temple guards, who believes only the sacrifice of Atl will save his people from the pale lords, Atl is joined by a girl from Mexica, Citlali (Sit-larl-ee). Together they set out on an adventure that combines mystical beliefs with sheer danger.

On their way they are joined by one more child, Zolan who turns out to be a useful friend and ally.

Alternating between the first person Atl’s perspective as well as third person from the pursuer Huemac, this story is not a cut and dried good versus evil tale.

The pursuer, while shown as being harsh, is given depth which helps explain why he behaves the way he does: his motives are honourable according to the beliefs of the day.

Atl matures considerably in the story as does to a lesser degree the other two children.

As is popular now, the story ends clearly with a sequel in mind.

Recommended for upper primary school and secondary readers.