A review by bluestarfish
Gifts by Ursula K. Le Guin

5.0

Orrec and Gry are captivating people and the poor Uplands with their mysterious gifts and way of life feel harsh and real. The ordinariness of life (for them) makes sense until it gradually breaks open as the children grow and change and make choices about their own future. Because this is Ursula Le Guin we get imaginative fiction that does question and examine the differences between good and evil, question what heroism is, examine the roots of power, and imagine moral alternatives. The gift's gift is an incredible idea that I don't get to hear of very often and has left me with lots to think about.

Time for a re-read of the series! This is the one I had the clearest memories of, but I had forgotten some key details so it still felt like a fresh read.