Farwalker's Quest

Farwalker's Quest by Joni Sensel is a great coming of age story for upper elementary or junior high readers.

The story is set in a kind of post-apocalyptic world where much knowledge and technology have been lost after biological warfare rendered everyone blind. People have since recovered their sight, but have created a completely different society where people are selected at a "Namingfest" for different trades which reflect their natural abilities, and take on the last name of their trade. There are many trades, such as Fisher, Reaper, Storian (keeper of history), Finder, Tree-Singer (one who can talk to trees), Heal-touch, Kincaller (good with animals), and others. The Farwalker trade has become extinct at this time, as people have become less and less interested in exploring the world outside their own secluded towns.

The two main characters, Ariel and Zeke, are faced with the task of finding what they are good at, Ariel for the first time, Zeke after having lost the ability to do his trade. Both of them find their new trades to be something unexpected, and even unacceptible to some people. They also find themselves on an unexpected quest and meet a character who is remeniscent of Strider from Lord of the Rings.

There are plenty of tense moments, and a bit of action, but the most important parts of the story take place in the characters minds and hearts as they work through finding their place in the world.

There is also a theme of hope for the furture and a positive outlook on technology, provided people use it right.