Rating: 
Summary: Great start for any fantasy writer
Review: This book is a wonderful reference for any fantasy writer who is writing in a mideavel-related era. As Terry Brooks himself states in the introduction, it helps you add realism to your novel, which the readers can then relate to (publishers are constantly looking for novels like these). Also, this book helps you be more descriptive when the main character or character comes face to face wih a mythical creature or even a castle. It meticulously describes the form of a castle, castle life, and how a fortress goes under siege. Also, it explains the different names and purposes of a large number of soldiers. It describes every part and function of a suit of armor, and also provides a visual. Wether you wish to use this book to help you understand real magic, castles, fantasy races such as elves, or anything else you can imagine, buy it - you won't be sorry. This reference is truly indespencable, and will help anyone writing either about fantasy or medieval and renaissance times.
Rating:
Summary: This is practically my bible...
Review: This book is absolutely wonderful!! As a huge fantasy fan and aspiring writer, I constantly refer to it. The chapters Traditional Fantasy Creatures, Magic, Fantasy Races, and Creatures of Myth and Legend are my personal favorites. Terry Brooks, et al, have written an excellent guide to fantasy. As some have noted, there are very few pictures in the book, but that does not take away from the rich information provided. Buy this book!!
Rating:
Summary: An amazing resource
Review: This book is quite an amazing resource. Written by a collection of fiction authors, this book sets out to give the fantasy writer information on what he or she will need to build a fantastic world and culture. Everything is covered in here from politics to commerce to warfare, and it looks in depth at magic and witchcraft and fantasy creatures.
Now, as you might expect with a book that tries to be all things to all people, since it cannot have an infinite amount of information on all subjects, this book functions as an introduction, giving the reader (and writer) enough information to understand the concepts presented. In fact, I must say that the sections on magic and witchcraft were quite excellent and highly informative.
Therefore let me just say this, if you are a fantasy writer, either actual or aspiring, then this is a book you *must* read. I have found this to be a great source of information and ideas, and I know that you will as well. Get this book!
Rating:
Summary: Good for those just starting out
Review: This is a good book for anyone who needs to research their fantasy stories. It's packed with information about different cultures, religions, and folklore. It's also good for getting ideas for stories, and it's great for quick reference. I'd recommend this book for anyone starting out in writing fantasy fiction. I love it.
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