Starfire

Alvarez makes a spirited debut in this kickoff to the Guardian Herd series, set in a world populated by flying horses or pegasi. Every century, a black foal is born. On a black foal's first birthday, he or she is empowered by the Hundred Year Star with the ability to become a great healer or destroyer. Out of fear for their potential, most of them are killed rather than be allowed to mature. Starfire of the Sun Herd is the latest prophesized foal, and as his birthday approaches, it seems as though he'll meet the same fate. His mere existence is enough to cause the five herds to scheme and war against each other, even as Starfire himself goes into hiding. Alvarez's world is lush with description and atmosphere, and her premise has much to offer, but the huge cast makes it difficult to keep track of characters, especially given the preponderance of names ending in "wing" or "fire." Fans of animal fantasies who persist, though, should find it enjoyable. Ages 8%E2%80%9312. Agent: Jacqueline Flynn, Jo%C3%ABlle Delbourgo Associates. (Sept.)