Rating: Summary: A Great Novel whith an astonising philosophy Review: I found this book riveting and exciting through it's use of description. Although some may say that it lacks in motion, I would say that the book is an excellent example of something sensible, rather than most action or sci-fi novels.
Rating: Summary: A modern classic Review: While I have not read any of Le Guin's other works, this book sorely tempts me to try. As others have said, the fast and furious action of sword fights and magic battles is somewhat lacking. It should be stated, however, that the book never pretends to offer that. It is more a story of growth and personal development and this is what Le Guin clearly accomplishes. She writes in such a manner as to engage readers of all ages over 13 with solid writing, incredible plot and character development, and extremely good dialogue. The action, when it is present, is appropriate for the scene and is never the focal point of the chapter. Call it the psychological drama/thriller of fantasy, I just call it a really good book.
Rating: Summary: Probably my favourite book ever. Review: If you are an avid fan of rubbish yet action packed pulp sci-fi such as those books by Terry Brooks, David Gemmel or Anne McCaffrey then don't pick up this book. You will not find an 'exciting' novel full of spacey contraptions, fights with orcs and cardboard characters. What you will find however is one of the most sublime and mature works of fantasy ever written. Le Guin has created a work of genius. Yes it is slow at times, however this book is outstanding. Not a pulp novel but a masterpiece with a philosophy of its own, it more than rivals Tolkiens work. And as for criticisms that Ged, the protagonist, is a poorly drawn and obtuse character, i cannot think of a 'hero' in modern fiction today more poignant than the quiet, deep and flawed Ged. Genius.
Rating: Summary: A real invitation to the next three Earthsea books Review: Until now, I haven't read a fantasy or SF book by LeGuin that I didn't like. And this one, I love too. I've got the sequels next to my bed, ready to be devoured at night. I love the epical language (some people seem to have problems with that and the 'hard' words, but what are dictionaries for, and I am even Dutch, so English is my second language), the character development, the heroic view on how life should be. I love the idea of the powers of magic as depicted in this book. So much more realistic and modest than Tolkien. It makes it much more powerful to me. What strikes me in this book, as well in the books of Exile and Illusion of LeGuin, is her love for travel stories. The main character always goes on a big quest to find something, to accomplish a goal. And each time it is different, it is written so well that you feel that this next long journey is necessary for character and story development. It deepens the plot, it pictures a strange world that is still quite similar to ours. LeGuin's books are not for the 'heavy action lovers', where long battles occur. Special as well is the development of the shadow that is unleashed by Geb. It develops into a real human being, it is it's own shadow, and it is finally united with Geb. It makes me think of Yin and Yang.
Rating: Summary: incredibly simple and boring!! Review: this book is written on about a 2nd grade level. it kept my attention for about 2 pages. it goes no where and is incredibly predictable when it does. the characters and and world are incredibly undeveloped and it lacks any fast paced action or excitement to make up for it. dont waste you time with this one or any of the sequels they dont get any better
Rating: Summary: wonderful fantasy book Review: I loved the concept of the gebbeth after ged and the creativity inspired and reminded me about how few other authors have this kind of gift
Rating: Summary: A fantastic book Review: The first time I got to read anything of Urula K. LeGuin, was when I read Legends, and there was this short story called Dragonfly. That made me want to read more by LeGuin, and I got A Wizard Of Earthsea, and then I was hooked. The Book is the story about Ged, whose usename is Sparrowhawk, a young man, and it tells the story about Ged's quest for being a Mage first, in that how he unleashes a thing of great evil, and the rest of the book is about his quest for stopping that thing. A very great book.
Rating: Summary: NOT ENOUGH EXCITEMENT Review: I thought it started off ok but then it just went on and on and on and on. The story just was too complicated and it just was too hard too carry on reading it. The story is not exiting and i just could'nt escape in to it.I have asked some of my friends who have read it and they totally agree with me. I would hardley recomend it to anyone but if they like that sort of book good luck to them.
Rating: Summary: Great Brain stimulating fantasy, indeed worthy of JRR Tolk Review: Has alot of strange things in the begining, but there are enough explainations and descriptions in the later chapters. Great for any person just begining fantasy, this would be the book to start reading. McCaffrey and Tolkien and Le Guin are my favorite, they all seem to be of a parallel, if not the exact same types of fantasy. Gives great insight on nature of person, world, and our feelings, actions and thoughts. If a teacher "forces" you to read this, go thank him/her.
Rating: Summary: A GREAT BOOK FOR FANTASY LOVERS !!!!!!!!! Review: This book is totally cool . It has many ups and downs . It teaches morals too . (Pride) but hey , its good for ages 10-INFINITY . The language is easy to understand . PERFECT FOR A LITERATURE COURSE !
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