Summary: Taran, the assistant pig keeper, is swept into a magical adventure after the pig he is to be watching over escapes. He dreams of running of into battle with his hero, Prince Gwydion. They along with a unique group of other characters, including a young girl Eilonwy, make their way through a mystical land, Prydain. They face they evil king and queen who threaten the free life they love in Prydain.
Citation: Alexander, L. (1964). The book of three. New York: Random House.
Impressions: I really enjoyed reading this book. It reminded me of all the children's novels that have recently been so popular. I enjoyed the magic and enchantment that came with the novel. I also enjoyed that it was designated for a young reader but, a novel that an adult can enjoy. The only negative of the book is in the beginning chapters. Loyd is introducing the characters through a conversation and it is a bit difficult to keep them all straight. After about the 4th chapter, the characters seem to display characteristics that make it much easier for the reader to distinguish them. This is a fun and adventurous book for any young reader.
Reviews:
"The Book of Three is both a fantasy and a coming-of-age tale. Taran, the reluctant hero, learns much about the nature of courage and of friendship before the story closes. Author Alexander says in his preface, “Most of us are called on to perform tasks far beyond what we believe we can do. Our capabilities seldom match our aspirations, and we are often woefully unprepared. To this extent, we are all Assistant Pig-Keepers at heart."- Laura Baker
Baker, Laura. (2004). Book review: prydain chronicles. The Lorgnette-Heart of Texas Reviews, 17(4),
Retrieved from Children's Comprehensive Literature Database.
Library Setting: This book would be great as a display book. I would place this book with other popular adventure novels. I think this book is a would loved by today's children but, they need to be introduced to it! I also think that this book could be used in a book talk. This book could be added in with some other popular adventure novels (Percy Jackson, Harry Potter, etc.). The programmer could compare and contrast the differences in the elements of magic used in the novels.
