If not for references to modern technology, this tale set in India might defy chronology; the folkloric narrative, primal settings and universal themes confer a timeless quality. Parvati, the heroine, has a mystical aura; some villagers think she carries doom because her birth coincided with an unprecedented cyclone that devastated the entire region. Parvati does not know if she is to blame for the destruction caused by the storm or the famine that followed, but she retains a memory of everything she has witnessed since infancy. As she grows up, animals flock to her, seemingly communing with her, and when music is played, Parvati cannot keep her feet still, no matter how hard she tries. Eventually, Parvati's talent for dance and spiritual gifts win her a scholarship to a gurukulam (a school run by a great teacher). But devoting herself to her studies requires sacrifices Parvati has not even dreamt of. The Hindu concept of dharma is as intricately woven into this saga as decorative threads are woven into Parvati's elaborate dance costumes. Staples's (Shabanu; Haveli) deceptively plain prose conjures a variety of moods, textures and images. Poetically and suspensefully expressing the sorrows and joys of the spiritual life as well as the life of the artist, this is a spellbinder. Ages 12-up. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|
Shiva's Fire
Born in the South of India during a storm that destroys her village, Parvati is immediately recognized as a child with mystical abilities. As Parvati grows she feels compelled to dance as if music is a part of her body. But whenever she does, magical things happen. Regarded with fear and suspicion by the rest of the village, Parvati and her mother have a hard life until the day a master of classical dance comes to see her and offers her a chance to study with him. After years of sacrifice, Parvati is on the verge of realizing all of her dreams when she meets a young man born on the same day as she. He is someone who has magical abilities of his own. Now, for the first time, Parvati questions what her true destiny is. Suzanne Fisher Staples, author of Shabanu and Haveli has created a lyrical novel steeped in the traditions and customs of India. Christina Moore provides the perfect voice for Parvati, a spirited and dedicated heroine.
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Shiva's Fire
Born in the South of India during a storm that destroys her village, Parvati is immediately recognized as a child with mystical abilities. As Parvati grows she feels compelled to dance as if music is a part of her body. But whenever she does, magical things happen. Regarded with fear and suspicion by the rest of the village, Parvati and her mother have a hard life until the day a master of classical dance comes to see her and offers her a chance to study with him. After years of sacrifice, Parvati is on the verge of realizing all of her dreams when she meets a young man born on the same day as she. He is someone who has magical abilities of his own. Now, for the first time, Parvati questions what her true destiny is. Suzanne Fisher Staples, author of Shabanu and Haveli has created a lyrical novel steeped in the traditions and customs of India. Christina Moore provides the perfect voice for Parvati, a spirited and dedicated heroine.
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Product Details
BN ID: | 2940170729739 |
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Publisher: | Recorded Books, LLC |
Publication date: | 08/19/2011 |
Edition description: | Unabridged |
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