One-line Summary:
In “Terrier,” the first book of the Beka Cooper series by Tamora Pierce, a determined young girl named Beka joins the Provost’s Guard in the city of Corus, where she must navigate the dangerous streets and solve a series of murders.
The Adventures of Beka Cooper
Beka Cooper, a young girl with a strong sense of justice, dreams of becoming a member of the Provost’s Guard, the law enforcement agency in the city of Corus. In “Terrier,” we follow Beka as she joins the Guard and embarks on her first assignment as a “Puppy,” the nickname for new recruits.
As a Puppy, Beka is assigned to the Lower City, a rough and crime-ridden area of Corus. She quickly realizes that her job will not be easy, as she encounters dangerous criminals, corrupt officials, and a city plagued by violence. Beka’s determination and resourcefulness are put to the test as she navigates the treacherous streets, gathering information and solving crimes.
A Loyal Friend and a Mysterious Rogue
During her time in the Lower City, Beka forms a close bond with two individuals who become crucial to her investigations. The first is her loyal scent hound, Achoo, who helps her track down criminals and uncover hidden secrets. Achoo’s keen sense of smell proves invaluable in Beka’s pursuit of justice.
The second is a mysterious rogue named Rosto the Piper, who has connections to the criminal underworld. Despite his questionable reputation, Beka finds herself drawn to Rosto and his enigmatic personality. Together, they uncover a web of corruption and conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of power in Corus.
A Race Against Time
As Beka delves deeper into her investigations, she discovers a series of gruesome murders that seem to be connected. With the help of her friends and allies, she must unravel the mystery and catch the killer before more lives are lost. Along the way, Beka faces personal challenges and confronts her own fears, proving herself to be a capable and determined young woman.
Throughout “Terrier,” Beka’s character development is a central focus. She grows from a timid and uncertain recruit into a confident and skilled member of the Guard. Beka’s journey is not without its setbacks and sacrifices, but her unwavering commitment to justice and her loyalty to her friends propel her forward.
Key Takeaways:
- Beka Cooper is a strong and determined young girl who overcomes challenges to pursue her dream of becoming a member of the Provost’s Guard.
- The Lower City of Corus is a dangerous and crime-ridden place, where Beka must navigate treacherous streets and face corrupt officials.
- Beka forms close bonds with her scent hound, Achoo, and the mysterious rogue, Rosto, who help her in her investigations.
- As Beka uncovers a series of murders, she must race against time to catch the killer and bring justice to the city.
- Beka’s character development and growth throughout the book showcase her determination, courage, and loyalty.
“I will not give up my city to the rats.” – Beka Cooper
In “Terrier,” Tamora Pierce introduces readers to a captivating world filled with intrigue, danger, and a strong-willed protagonist. Beka Cooper’s journey as a young guardswoman is filled with excitement, mystery, and personal growth. Through her investigations, Beka uncovers the dark underbelly of Corus and fights for justice in a city plagued by crime. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and themes of loyalty and perseverance, “Terrier” is a thrilling start to the Beka Cooper series.
