First Test: Protector of the Small by Tamora Pierce

I hate when I forget to blog about a book and add it to Goodreads. That's what happened here. I've read (or listened) to this YA fantasy novel before, but didn't keep track of it, so I had to re-read it for PPYA! But I'm glad I did, because it reminded me of how much I admire Pierce for her girl-power heroes.

Kel is only 10-years-old but wants to be a warrior like her hero, Alanna the Lionness. But things aren't fair when you're the first girl trying to train as a page.  Most of the boys don't want her there--including the training master. So Kel must prove that she's tough, smart, and a darn good fighter who is worthy to serve the king. And she does!