[.ca] Tears of the Salamander (ISBN 0440238234)

Intriguing:
This is an intriguing book. At first I thought it was bizarre - salamanders living in the lava of the volcanoe making gold and curing cancer with their tears. But, after finishing it, I find myself reflecting on the story and liking it more and more. The evil uncle is consumed with his quest for incredible wealth, and conquering death and having unending life. Unfortunately to achieve his desires he commits some unspeakably evil acts - he is totally corrupted. I think you should read it and see what you think!

INTENSE AND GRIPPING YOUNG ADULT DRAMA:
A dramatic and gripping story of a young boy, Alfredo, orphaned when his home is burned down and suddenly finds himself in the care of his strange uncle. Uncle Giorgio is more than just strange he is also the Master of the Mountain, the one with the gift to control the volcano and protect the lives of all who live under it's shadow. But is he just strange or maybe something more, something evil? Alfredo discovers that he too has the power to talk to the mountain and what it tells him is that Uncle Giorgio is maybe trying to control more than just itself. TEARS OF THE SALAMANDER is a fairly short book and a very quick read. Of course one of the reasons it went so quickly is the fact that I had a difficult time putting it down at all! Young adults (and some of us older ones also) who like a bit of drama with a dash of fantasy are going to really like this story. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it!