Archive for March, 2010

When Sleeping Is Not Enough

March 31st, 2010

I didn’t actually plan on writing this review until Friday, but as I rounded the last 2% percent of this artfully crafted novel, my need to immediately put my thoughts to paper was almost overwhelming.

I have never encountered a book that embodied my personality more than “Tuesday Tells it Slant.” Lets just say, for all intents and purposes…that I am in fact Tuesday. (p.s. Tuesday is a name, not a weekday reference)

1. She is a book reviewer who has absolutely no problem telling someone that their book is a waste of space.

2. She should probably be writing books herself but lacks the inspiration to do so.

3. She refuses to throw away books because, in her mind, it should be considered a crime, and

4. She is willing to do almost anything to make the past disappear.

Growing up for Tuesday was…interesting. With a twin sister who enjoyed chucking the occasional milk cartoon at people, and a childhood friend that was secretly in love with her, life was bound to be full of surprises, but when interesting turns to unfathomable Tuesday loses focus. With her world suddenly turned upside down she decides that re-writing the past is a more acceptable answer than dealing with the future. How far would you go to slant your memories? Who would you unknowingly hurt in the process and would slanting your past skew your future?

Despite the underlying darkness of “Tuesday Tells it Slant” it was actually quite witty. “Holly Christine’s” writing had eloquence to it I was not expecting, and the novel as a whole gave me a much deeper appreciation for Emily Dickinson (whom I had otherwise considered a general waste of my brain matter.) The plot was written from 1 perspective, but in several different mediums, which could have (very easily) made this a difficult read, but a flowing plot and seamless transitions allowed the reader to keep pace with the (helpfully) dated flashbacks and diary entries.

Do I think this book is for everyone? No. It is not an epic romance, it is not an escape from reality, it is not a thoughtless read, what it is… is a lesson in dealing with the reality of life when it happens.

There was a spectacular revenge plot involving spoiled milk, a fight to save a book store, the invention of the orange skittle, adventures in teenage goldfish eating, a very stinky car, and 1 street-side hypnotherapy session that changed a life forever.

For those of you who do decide purchase this diamond in the rough…enjoy the beautiful prose, experience the inner-workings of an authors mind, and relish in the little details that make us human. Get it, Live it, Love it…pass it on.

Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: “2 minutes in sorrow will make you fall flat”

For a complete book description click image

(3.75/5)

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Hey!! Don’t Dig There!

March 29th, 2010

Dear Mysterious Powers and Angry Evil Dudes… my how I have missed you.

As you know by know (because I’m annoying and have said it about 500 times) I have been slammed with review request over the last month which, coincidentally enough, has left me little time to my OWN devises (aka the multitude of books I purchased that having been sitting on my Kindle like little sad puppies for a while now.)  So, when my husband had to make a sudden trip out of town, and offered to bring the kiddos with him, my first thought was Wahoo!!! I can read ALL NIGHT with no interruptions!!  Well, of course that didn’t happen, instead I went a little overboard with the Netflix, but regardless, I still managed to knock out not 1 but 2 of my lovely little paranormal ditties.

First up is “The Body Finder”

For most of you, you have already seen this book because it was a part of my “2010 Paranormal Book Preview” but for those that haven’t… it’s time to quit stalling and buy it already.

It’s not often that a title of a book and the plot of the book are one in the same (usually the title is much more abstract) but with “The Body Finder” what you read… is what you get.

Violet has a little problem.  Dead people talk to her. Not in the hey-how-are-you-I’m-a-ghost way one would expect, but more the what-is-that-ringing-oh-that’s-right-there’s-something-dead-buried-there way. Since she was a child the echos of the dead have spoken to her, and unless they are properly put to rest, Violet herself will get no sleep.  So, when her sleepy little town suddenly turns into the hot spot for kidnapped and murdered teenage girls, Violet does what she does best, she finds the body and then finds the echo that matches it.  With her best friend and local hottie Jay by her side nothing can go wrong right? Not so much.  When a nightmare, Violet thought had ended, suddenly turns into a game with her being the pawn, can she escape with her life or is she the next to be found beneath the trees?

Now, to be perfectly honest I’m not sure if I liked this book so much because of my recent paranormal absence or because I was expecting another “preview” let down, but the fact remains… this was one of the best YA books I have read so far this year.  “Derting” (this was her debut) was not flawless by any means, the first couple of chapters were sloppy and repetitive, and the character development was extremely lopsided; but by the time the action crept in her writing smoothed out enough for it to be enjoyable.  Her YA angst techniques were in full force and very well executed (loved the party scene) and the suspense towards the end of the book was not only dead on, it was surprising.  The one thing that discouraged me however was a misinterpretation about 70% through when I thought “Derting” had chopped the ending bluntly and unnecessarily, but have no fear… I was wrong, which made the last 2 chapters even more exciting.  I’m not sure what “Derting” has up here sleeve for her next novel, but lets just hope that she learns from her mistakes, tweaks them,  and runs like the wind… her knack for story telling is obviously natural, now all she needs is a little more focus and a mission.

There were bells in the cemetery, evil blondes, oil like substances in the lake, flat tires, over-protective boys, crutches, man hunts, unintentional cliff diving, and a chase through the woods that left several people breathless.

This one is a must read for paranormal lovers, I’m just glad the media finally got one right.

Happy Reading my fellow Finders and remember: peace and quiet is often over-rated…use the closest bathroom available.

For a complete book description click image.

(4/5)


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Author Interview: Shelena Shorts

March 27th, 2010

Hello Kindle-ites!

I hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend so far. If you haven’t had the chance to snag your copy of “The Pace” yet…here is a little something to help inspire the reader in you. As promised, I got to have a nice little chat with “Shelena Shorts” (Author of “The Pace) this week and here is what she had to say! Enjoy!!


KO: Before I ask about your novel “The Pace” I would love to know a little about you. In your bio you mentioned a “passion for igniting a spark in teens.” What is it about teens that peak your interest?

SS: Oh man, teens never get boring! Never. There is not a day that goes by when a teen doesn’t say or do something to surprise me or make me laugh. It’s so refreshing, and it motivates and inspires me to return the feeling.

KO: When did you first discover your love of reading? Is there a particular book that opened your eyes?

SS: I first became absorbed in books when I was about eleven years-old. I read all the Nancy Drew mysteries. My mom would take me around to the antique stores and we’d look for the classics until I had the whole collection. I loved those books!

KO: To date, who are your 3 favorite authors and why?

SS: Nicholas Sparks, for his ridiculous ability to tell great love stories.
Stephenie Meyer, because of her ability to suck people into her characters’ lives.
And Simone Eckles, for the way she portrays life seen through different eyes.

KO: Was there a point when inspiration just hit you and you thought “Hey… I can do this… I can write a book” or has writing always been there lingering in the background?

SS: I’m not sure I ever thought that! LOL. I began writing The Pace, because at the time I felt like I needed to. There was a short window where I couldn’t find any books that drew me into the characters like I wanted, so I thought, “I might have to write my own story to get exactly what I’m looking for.” So I did, and it wasn’t until I finished it that I thought, “Wow… I did it.”

KO: How did you first come up with the concept for “The Pace”?

SS: My favorite part of any book is the romance. So right away I started picturing a guy loving a girl forever, and next I could see and feel his worry that something was going to happen to separate them. From there I needed a way for Weston to know that. I knew I wanted him to be real and human, so I started looking for something way unique, and after some scientific research I came up with a way to make it happen.

KO: We hear so many variations from authors on how long it actually takes to write a novel, some say a successful novel “takes years” while others say “if the imagination is flowing it could take only weeks.” How long did it take you to actually complete (and be happy with) “The Pace”?

SS: About three months for first draft and another two of revisions.

KO: What would you say was the most challenging aspect of writing a novel?

SS: Definitely being able to capture what I see in my head and feel into words so everyone else sees it the same way I do.

KO: In the beginning of “The Pace” we learn that Sophie decides to attend an “Online High-School.” In your personal life I understand that you yourself are involved with a virtual school called “K12″, are there any more aspects of your personal experiences that were used in your writing process?

SS: The only event that was actually written from personal experience was the funnel cake incident, and that was added during the revision! I was at the beach for spring break with my kids and my daughter was holding the funnel cake. When the wind came….well you know what happened! There was so much powder, I couldn’t do anything but crack up, and after that, I thought, I HAVE to write that in.

KO: Is there anything in “The Pace” that you regret…wish you could turn back the clock an change?

SS: I’m working on my 3rd book now, and I can already see how much better I’m getting at crafting what’s in my head, but The Pace is everything I wanted it to be and more. I’m extremely happy with how well the story unfolded on those pages. It’s surreal. I go back and reread and think, “Who wrote that? Where did that idea come from? Oh, yeah it was me.” It’s very strange!

KO: What made you decide to make “The Pace” into a “series” novel?

SS: About ¾ of the way into writing it, the visions of their relationship kept coming, and I knew I couldn’t fit them into one book. And once I let go of the idea of trying to do that, more and more visions of their lives came.

KO: I am personally looking forward to the August release of “The Broken Lake” but even you have to admit that 5 months is a really long time to wait… is there anything at this point you can share with your fans to keep them holding on until then?

SS: Oh man! This time Sophie and Wes took me on a journey outside of my comfort zone, but it makes them seem even more real to me. I can tell you there will be more interaction with other characters and more risks for Wes than I would prefer.

KO: Again…thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to have a little chat with me! It is always fun to hear what inspires authors. Is there anything else you would like to add or have I successfully run you into the ground?

SS: Thank you very much for reading and reviewing The Pace for the Kindle. It’s amazing to discover all the places Sophie and Weston end up. I just appreciate the reception so much. Thank you- again!!

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The Road That Doesnt Glitter

March 26th, 2010

I have discovered, over the last 20 or so odd years, that the majority of authors tend to steer away from the gritty side of reality. Now, I’m not talking about psychological thrillers and autobiographies of young Hollywood starlets with coke addictions, what I’m talking about is the full rang of emotions people feel during loss.

When Kristen sent me “Homefront” I thought…”wow… this seems kind of interesting…” but I was in no way prepared for what I read.

For at least 9 years now our country has been dealing with some pretty radical changes. 1. We had our hearts crushed as we watched 2 of NYC’s most prominent features burn to the ground. 2. Our worlds were turned upside down with the decline of what was once a steady economy, and 3. We waved to our sons, husbands, brothers, uncles, and friends as they packed their gear and headed off to war.

It’s hard to image what it feels like to watch a loved one go off to war, unless you have been in those shoes. It’s hard to image the tricks your mind plays on you or the damage the absence can do to your physical body. It’s hard to image what it feels like to wake up everyday hoping that there isn’t a knock on your door.

Mia is 1 half of a whole…Jake is the other half, and now Jake is gone.

The events that unfold after he leaves is just a small glimpse into the life of a soldiers other half. Without the stability of marriage or an engaging job Mia is left with nothing to do but cope with the facts of life, but when coping consist of bottomless bottles of booze and a broken home, it becomes the most difficult adjustment in the world. What happens to the mind when it can’t get past loss? What happens to the mind when it can’t see past the haze of being alone? What happens to a persons will to live, when they think their “heart” is dead?

“Kristen Tsetsi” did what most authors wouldn’t dare do… she wrote the ugly side of waiting. She wrote it without flowery words or manipulated perception…what she wrote was, simply put, the truth. I have cried while reading before (you already know this) but never once has it been because of raw unbridled emotion. “Homefront” made me realize that things aren’t always so peachy on the other side, that people are damaged…or can get damaged very easily. I said that the writing wasn’t flowery, but that doesn’t take away from the brilliantness of it, writing this novel, in any other way, would have been inconceivable. To change it would be a crime.

I understand the necessity for people to read “happy,” I understand that 90% of the time, when someone decides to read a book they want to escape from the realities of everyday life, and I know that this book is by no means consoling, happy, or light hearted…but I still think it deserves your time.

Grab this book. Read this book. Then put it down and never pick it up again.

Not because it’s not great, but because sometimes the lesson only needs to be taught once.

Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: This is your moment to walk a mile in their shoes, don’t miss that opportunity!

For a complete book description click image

(5/5)

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Dying To Be Popular

March 25th, 2010

Last Thursday I introduced the boys in your life to an exciting new series…so to even out the playing field here is one for the girls.  Be sure to pay close attention when you are finalizing your purchase, wouldn’t want you to accidentally buy book #2.

Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: When THIS worlds got you down…step into a new one.

 

Ghostgirl

Click Image for Complete Details

Product Description

Now I lay me down to sleep,

I pray the Lord my soul to keep.

And if I should die before I awake,

I pray the popular attend my wake.

Charlotte Usher feels practically invisible at school, and then one day she really is invisible. Even worse: she’s dead. And all because she choked on a gummy bear. But being dead doesn’t stop Charlotte from wanting to be popular; it just makes her more creative about achieving her goal.

If you thought high school was a matter of life or death, wait till you see just how true that is. In this satirical, yet heartfelt novel, Hurley explores the invisibility we all feel at some times and the lengths we’ll go to be seen.


From School Library Journal

Starred Review. Grade 7 Up—Charlotte User, an invisible loser, dies just before enacting a plan to catch the cutest guy in school and achieve popularity. She refuses to accept her fate (death by gummy bear) and returns as a ghost with a mission: to go to the Fall Ball with Damen and get a midnight kiss. Hurley combines afterlife antics, gothic gore, and high school hell to produce an original, hilarious satire. Charlotte ambles through death’s door and remains a pitiable, selfish, and somewhat annoying heroine. Readers root for her, but cringe at her blunders, too. She blows off her new dead-kid school and classmates, unable to give up her living, breathing crush. Hurley’s pitch-perfect dialogue and clever names (Petula, Rotting Rita, Principal Styx) keep readers laughing. Dark, meditative song lyrics and poetry start each chapter while campy, Gothic illustrations frame the pages. Tim Burton and Edgar Allan Poe devotees will die for this fantastic, phantasmal read.—Shelley Huntington, New York Public Library
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

 

Praise for ghostgirl:

* Polished dark-and-deadpan humor, it’s a natural fit with Gen Y, too.”–Publishers Weekly (starred review)

* “[Tonya] beats out witty teen-speak like a punk-band drummer, keeping the narrative fast-paced and fun yet thought-provokingly heartwarming. Goofy, ghastly, intelligent, electrifying.”–Kirkus (starred review)

*”Tim Burton and Edgar Allan Poe devotees will die for this fantastic, phantasmal read.”–School Library Journal (starred review)

* “Readers with a taste for black humor and satire will feast on Hurley’s crisp, wise dialogue. Anticipate a well deserved cult following.” –VOYA (starred review)

“Written with deadpan wit…this is a ‘Wonderful Life’-like tale.” -New York Post

“A sincere (and humorous) exploration of how we all feel invisible at one time or another…perfect read.” -CosmoGirl

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Hitting The Snooze…

March 24th, 2010

When “Libby Cone” first emailed me and asked me to review her novel “Flesh and Grass” I said no. I had the email typed up and was about to click “Send”, but then I heard a little voice say “don’t send that!” so of course (with the voice being that of my nosy husband) I didn’t. Instead I said ok. (I am seriously considering making him sleep on the couch.)

To be perfectly honest I got bored just reading the synopsis for this book, and the thought of having to read more of it was daunting. Here was a novel that was originally intended to be historical fiction (which yes.. I have read several times before, and enjoyed…thank you very much!) but after more research (on the author’s part) her novel was flip-flopped into the strictly fiction category.

Here are the problems I have with that. (buckle up… I’m about to get bitchy)

1. If your original writing format was slated for HISTORICAL fiction then you have incorporated a great deal of “timelined” detail (dates, cities, etc.) These particular qualities can drag down a “strictly” FICTION novel. Think of it as reading the nutrition labels on EVERY single thing you pick up in a store. The detail to getting facts, numbers, dates and locations accurate draw away from the intended plot.

2. If an author decides to write a fiction novel (historical or not) there has to be an element of anticipation. Who is this story about? Why should we care about this person? What is going to happen to this person that makes THIS story significant or entertaining?

In “Flesh and Grass” both of the issues arose. Too much filler not enough substance.

The first half of the novel (keeping in mind the entire book is a little over 90 pages) was so bogged down by “factual” references that by the time and actual plot line appeared I had completely lost interest. Even though the story was clearly narrated through the mouth of one person, that said person had no defining qualities to link a reader to his outcome. (aka sloppy character development.)

I am, in no way, saying that this particular story couldn’t have been interesting, (it was about a group of people fleeing their “own” country seeking religious freedom, and a new life, only to be wrapped up in shady politics and a war that stemmed hundreds of miles away) what I am saying is that to make THIS particular story work, a story that is supposed to teach a lesson as well as entertain the audience, there has to be a defined hero/heroine with strong qualities that will encourage the reader to keep going. This novel, unfortunately, did nothing but make me feel as if I was listening to a genealogy lesson.

“Libby Cone” is a fantastic writer, (contrary to my previous rant), her use of language and her eye for detail is stunning, but she lacks the knack for making a book come alive.

Here is a theory I have. In her preface “Cone” stated that she had stopped working on this book for more than a year, if that is in fact true, this is the question she should have asked herself.

“How can I expect to keep my audience interested when I can’t even keep myself interested?”

I hate writing reviews like this, because I know, that despite my dislike for it, there is someone out there that took the time, the effort and had the passion to write it…but in the same right…if you’re going to write a book…. really WRITE THE BOOK. Don’t dance around it, don’t second guess yourself, and don’t change your mind half way through it.

Save your money kiddo’s. Maybe her next one will be worth the change.

Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: Someone has to make them mad… might as well be me.

For a complete book description click image

(1.5/5)

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Hocus Pocus!

March 23rd, 2010

For all of the younger paranormal fans out there… here is a spell book for the little ones.  Happy Tuesday and remember: Reading is contagious… pass it on!


Spells

For Complete Book Details Click Image


From School Library Journal

Starred Review. Kindergarten-Grade 4—As in Wolves (2005) and Little Mouse’s Big Book of Fears (2007, both S & S), Gravett continues her playful focus on the book as physical object. Here a small green frog transforms an old book of spells into a pirate ship, its torn pages serving as sail, flag, telescope, and water. As the amphibian cavorts through ripped-up incantations, he finds a scrap that reads: “Spell to Become a Handsome Prince.” On the ensuing spreads, the frog’s attempts to line up the proper magic words and phrases are depicted on the verso, while on the recto, split pages lead to increasingly hilarious results. Thus, the jumbled spell may read, “Into the cauldron these words cast Hoppity, Fluffity, Carrotozabbit. Stir three times and out spells…R/ABBIT” (or “R/AKE” if one turns only the lower portion, revealing the snake’s posterior, now supporting the head of a rabbit). The initial letter or blend resides in the top half-page; the remaining letters are on the bottom. The spells reconfigure, too. The controlled palette is comprised of parchmentlike cream, pale green, and yellow, and occasional glittery stardust. While the frog’s wish does come true, it is undone when he fails to read the fine print—a condition clarified only on the endpapers. This tour de force of design and detail is guaranteed to delight all ages, especially those just learning how to…spell.—Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library END

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I Stand Corrected

March 22nd, 2010

For those of you who have been around for a while you know that I “liked” but didn’t “love” the first 2 novels in the “Evernight” series (“Evernight” & “Stargazer” (3/5)) and while at first I had no intentions of reading any further into the series, I am happy that I did.

One of my biggest issues with “Gray’s” writing in the first two installments of this series was her propensity to be a tad bit flighty and unfocused in areas, and yes… I’m not going to say that “Hourglass” is mutually exclusive of this same complaint, but I will say that it is dramatically less noticeable which makes the plot read much soother than her first two attempts.

“Hourglass” picks up where “Stargazer” ended. Bianca (a half-vamp half human) and Lucas (a vampire hunter) find themselves in full lock-down inside of a Black Cross hide out. (think “warehouse full of Buffy wannabes”)  Life is hard…Bianca has to find a way to eat (aka drink) and Lucas has to find a way to save money (to plot their escape),  but that’s not all;  Ms. Bethany is pissed and she’s out for revenge.  After 1 very misguided attempt to contact her parents Bianca leads a less-than-merry band of vamps right to their doorstep.  Amidst the fighting secrets are revealed and time starts to tick.  Lucas and Bianca find themselves on the run, but what exactly are they running from? Will the Black Cross hunt them down and make an example out of them, or will Bianca’s mysterious dizzy spells finally take precedence over EVERYTHING.

There were definitely chapters that drug in “Hourglass” but in the end, the epic battle scenes and life decisions that seemed to pop up on every corner overshadowed the duller aspects of the plot.  Balthazar was naturally thrown back into the mix (which I personally was happy to see), and the character development in this novel was leaps and bounds over the two previous editions.  Be forewarned however that the book ends abruptly and shockingly and (if you are like me) you will be more than compelled to curse at your Kindle (or book.)

I am however, going to go on record as saying… I just may have been wrong about this particular series… there may be a bigger crowd out their for it than I originally speculated, because this novel was nothing short of a page turner.

There were surprisingly smart guys in Hawaiian print shirts, evil green water guns, a wraith with control issues, an ex-Viking, and several very well written battle sequences.

Get it, Live it, Love it…pass it on.

Happy reading my fellow Wraiths and remember: when in doubt… go with the sneak attack.

Click Image for Complete Details

(4/5)

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Expect The Unexpected

March 19th, 2010

So today I am going to do something I wouldn’t normally do but… hey hey… I’m a rebel so watch out!

“Leaving Paradise” is not only a book I read 2 weeks ago and did NOT write a review on, but it is a book that a review has already been written on; by my guest reviewer Nicole.  Don’t worry, I don’t plan on doing this on a regular basis, but I didn’t want to leave y’all hanging for the weekend, and since I haven’t had time to (bows head in shame) even start my next book (due to Spring Break with my kiddo’s) this has turned into my fall back plan.

I wanted to read this novel the second I read Nicole’s review of it for 2 reasons.

1.  The synopsis sounded different and very engaging.

2.  I have personally seen the effects of BOTH sides of this particular plot. (Naturally it didn’t turn out so peachy in the end, but hey… this is life, not a book.)

Caleb had it all, he was the high-school dream boy and all that that entails; sports, girls, weekend beer fest with the boys, but in the blink of an eye all that changed.  A few bad decisions and a couple of cop cars later Caleb is carted away to jail and Maggie, his neighbor, is rushed to the hospital.  A year later both are trying to regain their ground, Maggie is learning how to walk again, and Caleb is learning how to cope with the inevitability of his decisions.  Both lives are upside down and inside out and only fate can help them fix it.  Who can they trust? Who can they love? And what happens when what you thought was the whole truth is nothing but a snip-it of it?

“Simone Elkeles” is by no means new to the YA world, and over the last several years she has proven herself more than worthy of the fans she has acquired. Her skill for angst building is spectacular and her plots are surprisingly original in a “copy cat” filled genre.  The most beautiful thing about her writing structure is that she doesn’t always end her novels the way “society” would expect, but more the way SHE sees it.  They aren’t always happy, but they are warm and heartfelt, which sometimes means more than the generic happy ending.  The only flaw I can give you is that her attention to characterization is great. Why is this so bad you ask? Well, because she wraps you up into a nice little emotional cocoon and then hits you with the hard stuff;  “Leaving Paradise” is only book number one. (You see my problem.)

I am definitely slating this as a must read for lovers of the YA genre.  You never know where you are going to learn lessons and in what form they come it… but this one has a good one.  Get it, Live it, Love it…pass it on!

Happy reading my fellow Inmates and remember: Some people can change, sometime you just have to look past external appearances.

For Complete book details click image

(5/5)

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Get Them Involved!

March 18th, 2010

Morning Everyone!

I know I have missed the last 2 weeks with “It’s A Tween Thing” but I was searching desperately for a new series to get your someone little ones involved. Starting a series with your child won’t only help in getting them involved in a story but in the long run in can be helpful with comprehension! Here is one that is geared more towards the boys in your life, (I will look for a good girly series next) just make sure you are paying very close attention to the volume before you run right out and purchase the first one you see.

To Help… here is book one.

Happy reading and remember: When THIS worlds got you down, step into a new one!


The Chronicles of Prydain

Book 1 “The Book of Three”

Click Image for Complete Details

Amazon.com Review

The tale of Taran, assistant pig keeper, has been entertaining young readers for generations. Set in the mythical land of Prydain (which bears a more than passing resemblance to Wales), Lloyd Alexander’s book draws together the elements of the hero’s journey from unformed boy to courageous young man. Taran grumbles with frustration at home in the hamlet Caer Dallben; he yearns to go into battle like his hero, Prince Gwydion. Before the story is over, he has met his hero and fought the evil leader who threatens the peace of Prydain: the Horned King.


What brings the tale of Taran to life is Alexander’s skillful use of humor, and the way he personalizes the mythology he has so clearly studied. Taran isn’t a stick figure; in fact, the author makes a point of mocking him just at the moments when he’s acting the most highhanded and heroic. When he and the young girl Eilonwy flee the castle of the wicked queen Achren, Taran emotes, “‘Spiral Castle has brought me only grief; I have no wish to see it again.’ ‘What has it brought the rest of us?’ Eilonway asked. ‘You make it sound as though we were just sitting around having a splendid time while you moan and take on.’” By the end, Alexander has spun a rousing hero’s tale and created a compelling coming-of-age story. Readers will sigh with relief when they realize The Book of Three is only the first of the chronicles of Prydain. –Claire Dederer –This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

“A very funny adventure tale set in an imaginary kingdom… The writing is sophisticated.”--Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
— Review

“A very funny adventure tale set in an imaginary kingdom… The writing is sophisticated.”--Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

–This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

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