Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, 2009
ISBN-13: 978-1416986270
Available: New
Blood Ninja the distinctive cover art suggests, correctly, that what is offered it’s a far different story than other young adult vampire titles. Author Nick Lake takes you back in time to feudal Japan, where Taro, a young man in a fishing village, finds his simple life turned upside down when he and his family are attacked by ninjas. He is saved by another ninja, only to end up on the run, thrust into a world with grand destiny, vampire ninjas, samurai warriors and more.
Blood Ninja follows the familiar “hero’s journey” storyline, so you have a good idea where you are going, but you’ll still enjoy the ride. Nick Lake does an excellent job both with creating the atmosphere of feudal Japan and with plot pacing. Taro is an interesting character, and as the story continues he finds his world view constantly challenged, creating an internal struggle throughout the book that provides food for thought as well as blood, guts, and violence. The story ends with the perfect setup for Blood Ninja II: The Revenge of Lord Oda, set to come out in 2010.
Ultimately, Nick Lake has produced a very strong book with plenty of action, and a fair bit of blood and gore along with it. There isn’t a romance angle here, although there are two popular teen icons- ninjas and vampires- this is really a “guys’ book”. However, it’s important to note that this is also a fairly long book with complex vocabulary. As with Rick Yancey’s recent release, The Monstrumologist, Blood Ninja won’t be an easy read for reluctant readers, and while I wouldn’t discourage anyone from trying it out, librarians and teachers will want to keep in mind that this book is better suited for more advanced readers. Readers advisory note: Readers of Blood Ninja may also enjoy Night Runner by Max Turner.
Contains: Violence and gore