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Prentice Alvin facts for kids

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Prentice Alvin
Author Orson Scott Card
Illustrator Dennis Nolan
Cover artist Dennis Nolan
Country United States
Language English
Series The Tales of Alvin Maker
Genre Fantasy, alternate history
Publisher Tor Books
Publication date
1989
Media type Print (Hardcover & Paperback)
Pages 342
Award Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel (1990)
ISBN 0-312-93141-7
OCLC 18624985
813/.54 19
LC Class PS3553.A655 P74 1989
Preceded by Red Prophet 
Followed by Alvin Journeyman 

Prentice Alvin is a fantasy book written by Orson Scott Card. It was published in 1989. This book is the third one in Card's popular series called The Tales of Alvin Maker. The story follows a special boy named Alvin Miller. He is the seventh son of a seventh son, which means he has unique magical powers.

Prentice Alvin was recognized for its quality. It was considered for the Nebula Award for Best Novel in 1989. It was also considered for the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1990. These are very important awards in the world of science fiction and fantasy books.

What Happens in the Story

After spending time with Ta-Kumsaw, a Native American leader, Alvin is ready for a new adventure. Ta-Kumsaw taught Alvin many things about the ways of the Indian people. Now, Alvin heads back to his hometown to start a new job. He plans to become a Smith, a person who works with metal.

New Friends and Challenges

In his hometown, Alvin meets a young boy named Arthur Stuart. Arthur is half-black and has been taken in by the people who own the town's guesthouse. Alvin and Arthur quickly become friends.

Alvin also meets Miss Peggy Larner. Later, he discovers that Miss Peggy is the "torch" who helped him when he was born. They have been connected by magic ever since that day.

A Daring Escape

Soon, Alvin faces a big challenge. He has to help Arthur escape from slave-hunters. These hunters have special powers, called knacks, that help them find people. To protect Arthur, Alvin uses his own powers. He changes Arthur's DNA (the special code that makes up who you are) so the hunters' knacks cannot find him.

Alvin's Special Creation

As part of his training to become a master Smith, Alvin creates something truly amazing. He makes a plow out of living gold. This plow is filled with magic. This special creation shows that Alvin is ready to be a full-fledged Maker, someone who can create and shape things with magic.

The Journey Continues

The story ends with Alvin and Arthur leaving the town together. They head west, back towards Alvin's home. Their journey is just beginning, and many more adventures await them.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Alvin el aprendiz para niños

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