Zhae of Tlan

About the Book

A good fantasy novel is a thing hard to find, but look no farther: loosely based on the story of Joan of Arc, this new novel is set in a world where cats are like people, yaks are like slaves, and dogs are the enemy. . . maybe. Zhae Pal, the 13-year-old protagonist, longs to rise above the strict, pedestrian ways of quiet little Tlan. But her dreams of glory and heroism make her look foolish in the eyes of her fellow Tlanians.

Then she has a terrifyingly realistic vision, in which barbaric dogs burn their way through Tlan. When she first reveals her premonition she is met by laughter from the villagers. But as Zhae gains the respect of the mayor and of local hero Gan-shue Tauk, many of the Tlanians are ready to help stop the dogs. Zhae´s dreams of victory seem destined to come true.

But  Zhae´s beloved hometown is not safe from the clutches of panic, nor from the cats who disagree with Zhae. When the dogs arrive, the Tlanians are forced to barricade themselves inside the big, stone Town Hall, and Zhae goes alone to seek help from across the wintry peaks. Instead she uncovers a startling family secret and learns the answer to the question that has always haunted her: what is a hero? Zhae faces her future and the dogs armed with new courage and understanding.

About the Author

One of Tegan Blackwood's first memories is publishing her first story, when she was four. She is now thirteen and lives in Missouri with her parents, dogs, and cats. Aside from writing, her favorite thing to do is read. Zhae of Tlan is her first novel.