The Crystal Cave : Book One of the Arthurian Saga

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Summary: The Crystal Cave
Review: I first read this book about 15 years ago when I was in high school. I had always been fascinated by the Arthuruan legends. This was the first book I saw that ever covered Merlin and how his past shaped not only his life, but everyone else's. Instead of the evil sorcerer, or mysterious mage, this book introduced Merlin as a man with a special, and often demanding, gift. Stewart's descriptions of not only scenery, but Merlin's painful childhood and later feelings of acceptance create a breath-taking story in the classic Stewart style.

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Summary: Elegant and enthralling.
Review: I picked up this book because I'd heard a lot about it from fantasy buffs. I thought it would be a quick, amusing read, something to wile away the winter evenings with. I was amazed at its elegance and depth. Although many have complained at Stewart's "long descriptions," I thought they really brought the story alive and, in fact, played a major part in elevating this above most fantasy novels. The only thing I found jarring in this story was a lack of emotion from Merlin his self (although maybe that will come in later books--I've just finished the first <and will definitely read the other four!>). I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys fantasy novels and just plain darn good writing!

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Summary: Merlin and the Crystal Cave
Review: The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart, the first of a series, is about Merlin the Wizard's childhood and a little after that. Mary Stewart uses history to depict the setting of the novel, and draws on it somewhat to affect how Merlin grows up. Merlin is born in Maridunum, Britain. His mother is the daughter of the king of part of Wales. No one knows where or who his father is, except for Merlin's mother, who won't tell anyone. Merlin's grandfather is allied with the High King of Greater Britain. In the story Melrin runs from his home in fear of being killed by his uncle and to-be king Camlach. He flees to Less Britain and there finds out who his father is, and what his purpose for living really his. Merlin is arguably the most intriguing character. He is very solitary, as a boy and an adult, seeking no company from anyone except his personal servant. His most fascinating aspect his his ability to manipulate people, even without magic. In some circumstances he acquired help from God, using magic to cinvince people into doing what he wanted. Most fantasy fans would like this book. Merlin is always an interesting person to read about and has had many books written about him. His childhood is mysterious, though, and many people would like to find out about it. This book talks about his childhood, and how it affected his life. The only part of the book I didn't like is the extensive description of the landscapes and settings. If you like a lot of description, though, then this book is for you.

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Summary: In a class by itself
Review: This book (and its companions) simply ARE the Arthurian legend. The prose style is superb, the characters are so vividly drawn that they nearly step off the pages, and Stewart's engrossing portrayal of the post-Roman period in Britain must be read to be believed. Truly, a book to treasure.

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Summary: Arthurian Legend Related in first person tale
Review: Stewart's masterful depiction of Merlin's life is un-equaled by any Arthurian Author. The Twelve Books of King Arthur (Written in Old English) don't even comapre to the maginificance of Stewart's installments to the legend.

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Summary: This is definately the best book I've read.
Review: When I first was deciding wheather I could read this from the library quick enough, I already loved it. I totaly loved reading it. I continued to do research when I was done for some time. It is a great book. I especially like the way it tells about Merlin's childhood. I don't think of him as some weird wizard like guy anymore, but as a real person. I am buying the whole series and intend on reading the books again, as I've read from other reviews was enjoyable. I did especially love the characters too. When thiis one guy dies,(I wont tell who) I practically cried. When I thought he had died I did cry. I thought 5th century britian was described so well, it makes me seriously wish I could live then. But this is definately, a great book, witha wide age range.

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Summary: One of my favorite books in the world
Review: Elegantly written, with deep, complex charactization. This book and the rest of the trilogy are unforgettable and a pleasure to reread .

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Summary: Dominican h.s.in NO, LA...you finally picked a good book
Review: this was one of the only school books that i actually enjoyed reading. i read it in the eighth grade when i was still apprehensive about novels. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. this made me realize that the authurian legend had more to it than i had previously thought. this made me rethink about the authurian legend. finally a book aout authur that is not boring. it also shed light onto merlin that was previously not given. merlin finally gets the recognition that he deserves.

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Summary: The Human Face on Arthurian Legend
Review: As an avid fan of Arthurian Legend, this book is exceptional. I remember reading the Crystal Cave in high school. I just now decided to pick it up again and read the entire series. While I love the story of King Arthur, this book intriqued me because it wasn't so much about Arthur as it was about Merlin, who is the true hero of the legend. Stewart was able to give me something real from this legend, a intimate relationship with Merlin. I have often wondered how Merlin came about. As much as I love Arthur, after reading Stewarts rendition of this wonderful story, I must say that Merlin is my heart's desire. To see him portrayed as a powerful man with just the simple gift of "Sight", instead of the mystical magician is heart warming. Stewart gave Merlin humanity. While Merlin says he is loveless, I say that he is wrong. He is deeply loved by anyone who has the lovely opportunity of reading this extrodinary book.

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Summary: A stroy that makes you want to read until you finish.
Review: A wonderful story that you can almost picture as you read. You get so into the book that you just want to read it until you have finished.