American Library Association “Best Books for Young Adults”“Truly marvelous and beautiful.” —KLIATT“An American fantasy in the tradition of T. H. White’s Sword in the Stone.” —School Library JournalFrom the author of Ender’s Game, an unforgettable story about young Alvin Maker: the seventh son of a seventh son. Born into an alternative frontier America where life is hard and folk magic is real, Alvin is gifted with the power. He must learn to use his gift wisely. But dark forces are arrayed against Alvin, and only a young girl with second sight can protect him. “A consistently gripping tale featuring solid historical research and a keen understanding of religious experience. Another major effort by a world class talent. Highly recommended.” —Booklist“Captures the essence of a world where folk magic abounds. A tribute to the art of storytelling, this is highly recommended.” —Library Journal“This beguiling book recalls Robert Penn Warren in its robust blend of folktale, history, parable, personal testimony, and pioneer narrative.” —Publishers Weekly