Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.08 AVERAGE
4.08 AVERAGE
A childhood favorite. Reread because of the references in A Court of Mist and Fury
Sadder and more thoughtful than I remember. As a child, I was disappointed at how Taran never accomplished any true "heroism", like slaying a dragon or saving the world. However, rereading them as an adult makes me realise true heroism is not in glory and valiant deeds, but rather in peace and protecting the peace. Adaon said it well in this book, that there was "more honor in a field well plowed than one soaked in blood."
It's an attitude similar to Tolkien's work as well, and I couldn't help but think of Frodo while reading about Taran.
I really enjoyed reading it again
It's an attitude similar to Tolkien's work as well, and I couldn't help but think of Frodo while reading about Taran.
I really enjoyed reading it again
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This book is better than the first one, in my opinion. The story has a more definite goal and the characters are less at the whims of chance, accomplishing more because of their abilities, rather than sheer luck.
I really liked the characters that were added in this book, especially Adaon and the various warlords of Prydain. I also liked Lloyd's handling of the various side characters who were not among the adventurers, but helped them along the way, such as the three witches.
The story of the Black Cauldron is more defined and makes slightly more sense than the story in the Book of Three. It is much less driven by random occurances and Taran and co. actually do things to drive the story along, rather than just going along.
If you liked the first book, you will like this one as much if not more.
I really liked the characters that were added in this book, especially Adaon and the various warlords of Prydain. I also liked Lloyd's handling of the various side characters who were not among the adventurers, but helped them along the way, such as the three witches.
The story of the Black Cauldron is more defined and makes slightly more sense than the story in the Book of Three. It is much less driven by random occurances and Taran and co. actually do things to drive the story along, rather than just going along.
If you liked the first book, you will like this one as much if not more.
adventurous
hopeful
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Remember this one from the 80s movie, and I don't think it translated this beautiful story very well. It's a simple adventure tale, with lots of memorable characters. Was a fun, short, and satisfying read.
Man, so good.
This series is deceptive. The names are all odd and annoyingly similar, to my American sentiments. The first half of each book drags, and I struggle to gain momentum. With both books, I set it aside half way through to read another book, and then picked it up again grumblingly. And both times, the books shocked me with the excitement, depth, and goodness in the last half. Twice now, I've closed Lloyd Alexander's books with a deep sigh of contentment.
The theme of honor is entrenched throughout this whole book. In a way, the story is simply a frame for the significant lesson you're expected to walk away with. However, it doesn't feel the least bit preachy.
I've heard it said that fantasy writers fall into one of two catagories: those who write characters well and those who create worlds well. I feel that Alexander falls into the former category. While descriptions of the setting abound, he really shines in the way he depicts the characters, especially their growth. I want to know them all! Gurgi is my favorite. I, too, enjoy crunchings and munchings.
This series is deceptive. The names are all odd and annoyingly similar, to my American sentiments. The first half of each book drags, and I struggle to gain momentum. With both books, I set it aside half way through to read another book, and then picked it up again grumblingly. And both times, the books shocked me with the excitement, depth, and goodness in the last half. Twice now, I've closed Lloyd Alexander's books with a deep sigh of contentment.
The theme of honor is entrenched throughout this whole book. In a way, the story is simply a frame for the significant lesson you're expected to walk away with. However, it doesn't feel the least bit preachy.
I've heard it said that fantasy writers fall into one of two catagories: those who write characters well and those who create worlds well. I feel that Alexander falls into the former category. While descriptions of the setting abound, he really shines in the way he depicts the characters, especially their growth. I want to know them all! Gurgi is my favorite. I, too, enjoy crunchings and munchings.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes