Author:Lloyd Alexander Binding: Paperback Published: 2006-05-16 ISBN: 080508052X Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
"My favorite children's book"
"My Poor Tender Head!"
"Create Your Own Review"
"Not Free SF Reader"
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Editorial Review:
The Newbery-winning fantasy series now available in gorgeous new paperback editions! Since The Book of Three was first published in 1964, young readers have been enthralled by the adventures of Taran the Assistant Pig-Keeper and his quest to become a hero. Taran is joined by an engaging cast of characters that includes Eilonwy, the strong-willed and sharp-tongued princess; Fflewddur Fflam, the hyperbole-prone bard; the ever-faithful Gurgi; and the curmudgeonly Doli--all of whom have become involved in an epic struggle between good and evil that shapes the fate of the legendary land of Prydain. Released over a period of five years, Lloyd Alexander's beautifully written tales not only captured children's imaginations but also garnered the highest critical praise. The Black Cauldron was a Newbery Honor Book, and the final volume in the chronicles, The High King, crowned the series by winning the Newbery Medal for "the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children." Henry Holt is proud to present this classic series in a new, redesigned paperback format. The jackets feature stunning art by acclaimed fantasy artist David Wyatt, giving the books a fresh look for today's generation of young fantasy lovers. The companion book of short stories, The Foundling is also available in paperback at this time. In their more than thirty years in print, the Chronicles of Prydain have become the standard of excellence in fantasy literature for children.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
My favorite children's book I read this book for the first time when I was in the fifth grade. Since then I have read and re-read it time and again over the years (I am now 40) and the book still has a strong appeal to me- I read it again earlier this year and was struck by how profound the book is. Lloyd Alexander was a very rare author who wrote with a high level of integrity and it is easy to see that the Prydain Series was one dear to his heart. I had the opportunity to meet him several years ago and enjoyed the brief visit I had... more info
My Poor Tender Head! The High King, like the four volumes leading up to it, is an entertaining read to say the least. Sadly, I was 17 before I discovered the chronicles of Prydain, so a lot of the magic and wonder was lost for me. Still, It never took more than two sittings to polish off any of them. So, for those of you thinking about a purchase, I will share the thoughts of an older reader. For starters, this is probably the darkest of the series by far. There are some genuinely touching, although not totally unexpected,... more info
Create Your Own Review Jamin P. review of The High King by Lloyd Alexander, March 19, 2008 The book I read, The High King, was great. The time, setting and plot all fit together quite nicely. The story takes place in Medieval Times but it is a fantasy world. Taran, an assistant-pig-keeper, is now a great warrior and he is the leader of an army of horsemen against Arawn-Death-Lord. There is a catch though Arawn has stolen the sword of Dyrawyn- the most powerful weapon in the kingdom of Prydain. Taran and is companions have... more info
Not Free SF Reader Pig boy gets over it, the sword, the girl, the knowledge and the administration job. Taran finally gets organised as far as the princess is concerned, but, as these things goes, is rudely interrupted by the goings on caused by your usual dark lord of the underworld. A fantasy hero has to deal with that first, befor eany nuptials, as well as all the nicking off of the supernatural types and a decision for the woman of the piece.
