Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder (2005): Summary of the Book
Poison Study is a 2005 fantasy novel by American author Maria V. Snyder. It is the first book in the Study Series, followed by Magic Study and Fire Study. The novel tells the story of Yelena Zaltana, a former kitchen slave. She is given the opportunity to avoid execution by becoming the food taster for the Commander of Ixia, an oppressive military ruler. As she navigates her way through the dangerous world of Ixia, she learns to control her growing powers and discovers she is more than she ever imagined.
Plot Summary
Yelena Zaltana is a kitchen slave living in the territory of Sitia, which is under the rule of the Commander of Ixia. When the Commander learns of her magical powers, he orders her execution. Desperate for a way out, Yelena agrees to become the Commander’s food taster, a job that could potentially kill her if she is poisoned. As she serves the Commander, Yelena learns to control her powers and discovers she is more than she ever imagined.
Yelena soon finds herself in the middle of a power struggle between Sitia and Ixia. Her mission is to save Sitia from the Commander’s oppressive rule and help restore the balance between the two territories. With the help of her magical powers, Yelena works to defeat the Commander and restore peace to Sitia.
Main Teachings
The novel explores themes of power, freedom, and self-discovery. It teaches readers that no matter what obstacles they may face, they have the power to overcome them. The novel also touches on the importance of friendship and loyalty, as Yelena finds strength and courage in the people she meets during her journey. Finally, the novel emphasizes the importance of taking risks and believing in oneself.
Interesting Facts
- Poison Study is the first book in the Study Series.
- The novel was named one of the ten best fantasy novels of 2005 by Publishers Weekly.
- The novel has been translated into more than fifteen languages.
- The novel was nominated for the 2006 Compton Crook Award.
- The novel was adapted into a comic book series in 2007.
FAQs
Q: What is Poison Study about?
A: Poison Study is a 2005 fantasy novel by American author Maria V. Snyder. It tells the story of Yelena Zaltana, a former kitchen slave who is given the opportunity to avoid execution by becoming the food taster for the Commander of Ixia, an oppressive military ruler. As she navigates her way through the dangerous world of Ixia, she learns to control her growing powers and discovers she is more than she ever imagined.
Q: Who wrote Poison Study?
A: Poison Study was written by American author Maria V. Snyder in 2005. It is the first book in the Study Series, followed by Magic Study and Fire Study.
Q: What awards has Poison Study received?
A: Poison Study was named one of the ten best fantasy novels of 2005 by Publishers Weekly. The novel was also nominated for the 2006 Compton Crook Award and was adapted into a comic book series in 2007.
Q: How many languages has Poison Study been translated into?
A: Poison Study has been translated into more than fifteen languages.